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An ex-Labour adviser who supported a councillor charged with child sex crimes may face embarrassment in his pursuit of a peerage.

The SNP has submitted an early-day motion to prevent Matthew Doyle from assuming his seat on Monday.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaking during Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons.An ex-Labour adviser may face embarrassment in his pursuit of a peerageCredit: PA

The Westminster leader criticized him as “another crony linked to a sex offender.”

He added: “Just as he has remained silent on Peter Mandelson’s peerage, he is attempting to evade public scrutiny regarding his associate Matthew Doyle.”

Early-day motions (EDMs) are non-binding but serve to highlight important issues.

In 2017, Mr. Doyle campaigned for Sean Morton, who later admitted to possessing child abuse images.

Mr. Doyle has expressed regret over his involvement.

He stated that he knew Morton through mutual acquaintances.

He also mentioned that he had “not seen him for years.”

No. 10 confirmed that an investigation had taken place.

A spokeswoman stated: “Questions concerning Matthew Doyle’s previous association with Sean Morton were thoroughly examined.

“This included multiple interviews with Matthew Doyle prior to his appointment.”

Matthew Doyle, Starmer government Director of Communications, wearing a maroon suit and glasses, holds a black binder.The SNP has submitted an early-day motion to prevent Matthew Doyle from assuming his seat on MondayCredit: Alamy

What is the controversy surrounding Matthew Doyle?

Matthew Doyle, an ex-Labour adviser, is facing scrutiny due to his past support for a councillor charged with child sex crimes. The SNP has lodged a motion to prevent him from taking his seat in the House of Lords.

What action has the SNP taken regarding Matthew Doyle?

The SNP has submitted an early-day motion in Parliament to block Matthew Doyle from taking his seat on Monday.

What did Matthew Doyle say about his association with Sean Morton?

Matthew Doyle has expressed regret over his involvement with Sean Morton, stating that he knew him through mutual acquaintances and had not seen him for years.

Was there an investigation into Matthew Doyle's past?

Yes, No. 10 confirmed that an investigation was conducted regarding Matthew Doyle's past association with Sean Morton, which included several interviews prior to his appointment.