A Conservative MP has revealed they were raped and blackmailed and wants to transition to be a woman and also suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), in a highly personal statement.
Jamie Wallis, the MP for the Welsh Bridgend constituency, was praised for their bravery after revealing that theya is are "not OK", and for being open about having gender dysphoria.
The Tory explained that they are trans, “or to be more accurate, I want to be” and “always imagined I would leave politics well before I ever said this out loud”.
Wallis also said they had been blackmailed over it, with the offender being given a two year and nine month jail term.
Wallis claimed the blackmailer outed the situation to his father and sent photos to other family member. They claimed the perpetrator asked for £50,000 to ‘keep quiet’.
The MP was arrested by police and subsequently fined following a car crash last year which Wallis explained as a result of suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder after being raped.
The statement was posted online Wallis simply said “it’s time” but added that they had felt this way since being a ‘very young child’.
Wallis explained: “For a while it seemed as though I would be able to get on with things and move on.” “Being an MP and hiding something like this was always going to be tough, but I arrogantly assumed I was up for it. Well, I’m not.”
MPs from across the political divide were quick to issue messages support.
The SNP ’s Stewart McDonald MP said: “The step you have taken in sharing this with us all is one of exceptional courage, and the next steps won’t be alone. All power to you, Jamie.”
Tory Tom Tugendhadt said: “This is a very brave statement”
Lib Dem Layla Moran added: “Sending loads of support, Jamie. I hope you’ll be overwhelmed by love for taking the plunge and revealing your truth.”
Labour Luke Pollard, Plymouth’s first openly gay MP, replied: “Well done Jamie. It really does get better when you make this first step. It is incredibly brave to speak so honestly and authentically. Sending best wishes and support.”
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