Former Political Advisor Matthew Torbitt Pleads Guilty to Expense Claims Fraud
Matthew Torbitt, previously a political advisor to Bury South MP Christian Wakeford, has pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation at Westminster Magistrates' Court. Torbitt admitted to making three fraudulent expense claims, amounting to more than £5,000, while employed by the MP.
The charges detail that between 2022 and 2023, Torbitt submitted expense claims for work-related activities which were later found to be fabricated. The prosecution highlighted that the fraudulent claims included costs for travel and accommodation that were never incurred.
A spokesperson for Mr Wakeford stated that the MP was made aware of alleged discrepancies in Torbitt's expenses and subsequently reported the matter to the parliamentary authorities. Torbitt was dismissed from his role following an internal investigation.
The court has scheduled sentencing for 20 August. This case underscores the ongoing scrutiny of parliamentary expenses and the mechanisms in place for accountability within political offices.
