Ex-Tory MP Natalie Elphicke Faces Lobbying Claims Amid Husband’s Sex Trial
Former Tory MP turned Labour defector Natalie Elphicke is under fire for allegedly lobbying then-Justice Secretary Sir Robert Buckland during her ex-husband’s criminal sex offence trial. Buckland revealed Elphicke contacted him before the hearing of Charlie Elphicke’s case at Southwark Crown Court.
Pressure Over Court Venue and Judge Raises Eyebrows
Elphicke reportedly worried that her husband’s trial was the first major case at Southwark Crown Court post-Covid lockdown. She questioned the choice of Lady Justice Whipple to oversee proceedings. Some saw this as an attempt to move the case to a less high-profile court or to swap the senior judge.
Sir Robert Buckland slammed the intervention, saying: “It would have been completely inappropriate for her to speak to the judge about the trial.” He warned that such moves threaten the vital separation of powers between Parliament and the judiciary.
Elphicke Stands by Ex as Sex Assault Conviction Looms
Charlie Elphicke, Natalie’s ex-husband and former Dover MP, was convicted of sexually assaulting two women and jailed for two years. Despite their divorce, Natalie publicly backed his failed appeal, calling him “attractive, and attracted to women” and claiming he was a victim of “dirty politics and false allegations.”
Further controversy surrounds reports Elphicke tried to secure cushier prison conditions for Charlie, including softer pillows. Her spokesperson dismissed these claims, attributing any support from Tory MPs to longstanding personal ties.
Elphicke Denies Wrongdoing Amid Tory-Labour Fallout
Elphicke denies any improper conduct in her meeting with Buckland or attempting to improve jail conditions. Her spokesperson blasted Buckland’s timing, arguing concerns should have been raised earlier.
Her defection to Labour shocked Westminster, with MPs uneasy about her past comments on her ex’s victims. Elphicke has since expressed regret and acknowledged the importance of justice in Charlie’s case.
Bitterness Over Ministerial Snub Sparked Defection
Sources claim Elphicke’s Tory exit stemmed from anger over being blocked from a housing minister role. Her frustration started with Liz Truss’s refusal and continued under PM Rishi Sunak.
When announcing her switch, Elphicke slammed Sunak’s government as “tired and chaotic.” She vowed Labour would “bring a much better future for our country” and champion real change.
