GB News pundit and former Labour aide Matthew Torbitt has pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud by false representation relating to his parliamentary expenses. The 35-year-old, who built a media profile as "Britain's favourite lefty" and previously worked as a caseworker for various Labour MPs including Bury South's Christian Wakeford, admitted the offences at Thames magistrates court, where he confirmed only his name, date of birth, address and plea. The case matters because it involves misuse of taxpayer-funded parliamentary expenses by a public commentator who has built a career championing social causes.

Prosecutors said Torbitt obtained free rail tickets and accommodation between August 2022 and September 2024 for trips unrelated to parliamentary business, using the parliamentary travel booking system, and later submitted a separate reimbursement claim in October 2024. The Crown Prosecution Service estimates the fraud at more than £6,000, though the exact figure will be confirmed at sentencing. The Metropolitan Police began investigating in April 2025 after a report of "unauthorised purchases", charging Torbitt in June. He was granted unconditional bail and will be sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court later this year; he no longer works in Parliament but retains roles including a fellowship at the Centre for Social Justice.