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Ex-Political Advisor Matthew Torbitt Pleads Guilty to Expense Fraud

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Former political advisor Matthew Torbitt has pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud by false representation at Thames Magistrates' Court.

The 35-year-old admitted to making fraudulent claims through the parliamentary travel booking system between August 2022 and September 2024.

Torbitt was employed by Bury South MP Christian Wakeford during the period of the offences.

Fraudulent Claims Exceeded £6,000

Prosecutor Maisha Mannan told the court that the unauthorized claims for rail tickets and accommodation exceeded £6,000.

The final amount will be calculated prior to sentencing.

The Metropolitan Police began investigating the financial discrepancies in April 2023 after reports of systemic booking misuse.

Torbitt, a former political commentator who appeared on major British broadcasting networks, had previously described himself as "Britain's favourite lefty."

His Westminster career began a decade earlier through an internship with a high-profile Labour politician.

District Judge Navneet Sher granted Torbitt unconditional bail and transferred the case to Snaresbrook Crown Court for sentencing.

"It's unlikely to be before four weeks, in any event," Judge Sher said.

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