Karl Turner MP has Labour whip restored and apologises to colleagues

BACK IN THE FOLD: Karl Turner MP

By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor

Hull MP Karl Turner has had the Labour whip restored after being suspended by the Parliamentary Labour Party over his criticism of Government policy.

The Hull East MP had been sitting as an independent since the end of March after being suspended from the PLP following criticism of the Government under former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, particularly over plans to limit jury trials.

The proposals, which were fiercely opposed by lawyers and were intended to help reduce a backlog in the courts, were scrapped earlier this month under new PM Andy Burnham.

Mr Turner confirmed he had been restored to the Labour benches this afternoon in a letter posted on social media platform X.

In what he introduced as an “agreed statement”, Mr Turner also apologised for any offence he may have caused colleagues.

The statement said: “I want to take this opportunity to apologise and reflect on the offence I may have caused colleagues in recent months.

“In particular, I recognise that my conduct during disagreements over the Government’s proposals to curtail jury trials was, at times, unacceptable. My concerns were sincerely held and reflected my longstanding commitment to justice and the rule of law.

“However, I acknowledge that, in advancing those arguments, my approach was sometimes overly robust and that my words or actions caused offence to colleagues.

“With the Party under new leadership and a renewed approach to managing differences of opinion, I am keen to move forward positively and draw a line under this episode.

“I am grateful to have had the whip restored and to the Government Chief Whip for her constructive approach. I have given her assurances as to my future conduct. I remain committed to supporting the Prime Minister and look forward to once again playing my full part as a Labour Member of Parliament.

“I will not be making further statements or giving interviews on this matter.”

Mr Turner was first elected to the Hull East constituency in 2010, succeeding John Prescott, who had held the seat for 40 years.