James McMurdock, the Reform UK Member of Parliament for South Basildon and East Thurrock, has resigned the party whip and suspended himself from Reform UK amid an investigation into allegations of business impropriety during the Covid-19 pandemic. The inquiry focuses on McMurdock's use of approximately £70,000 in government-backed Bounce Back loans taken out through two companies, one of which was dormant prior to the pandemic and the other with negligible assets. McMurdock has declined to clarify the legitimate purpose of these loans but maintains that all his business dealings complied with regulations. The suspension was initiated by McMurdock himself, reportedly to avoid damaging Reform UK's reputation, with the party's chief whip Lee Anderson confirming the move pending the publication of details in a national newspaper. Following legal advice, McMurdock has indicated his intention to permanently leave Reform UK and continue as an independent MP. Despite his departure from the party, the investigation into his business affairs is ongoing.