Matt Hancock has been accused of being "drunk on power" over "despicable" leaked WhatsApps suggesting he discussed blocking cash for a learning disability hub to pressure a Tory MP not to rebel against Covid rules.
Newly released messages show the former Health Secretary and a top aide spoke about warning Bury North MP James Daly that a new centre in his constituency would be "off the table" if he opposed the government.
Ex-Tory chairman Sir Jake Berry, who has a son with additional needs, said they had behaved in an "absolutely despicable and appalling way" and accused Mr Hancock of being "drunk on power" during the pandemic.
