A former Conservative activist who appeared to offer to arrange contract killers in an undercover investigation has been suspended from the party after previously working on social media projects for Conservative headquarters. Jack Ross, who served as chief executive of Turning Point UK, an offshoot of a right-wing American organisation, was contracted to provide social media advice to the party until earlier this year, according to BBC News.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch described the allegations as "shocking" and stated she did not "believe that person is a member anymore". A Conservative spokesman confirmed that Ross's party membership had "been suspended with immediate effect pending an investigation". Ross has denied the allegations, claiming his remarks were not intended to be taken seriously.
What did the undercover investigation reveal?
An undercover documentary broadcast this week by Al Jazeera showed Ross apparently offering to "broker" the services of contract killers. The investigation began when an Al Jazeera reporter approached Ross in 2022 with a fictional scenario involving a family business threatened by a criminal gang takeover. According to the broadcaster's report, Ross asked what was needed and listed violent options available for purchase, including stabbing, shooting and killing.
Beyond the contract killing allegations, Al Jazeera's investigation identified connections between Ross and Allan Nesbitt, a convicted criminal with multiple convictions for violent knife attacks. The broadcaster reported that Ross introduced its undercover reporter to Nesbitt and paid him thousands of pounds to stage a fake rally supporting the lifting of UK sanctions on Zimbabwe.
What was Ross's role in the Conservative Party?
Ross was paid to provide social media advice to the party for a brief period but was never an employee or holder of a Conservative Campaign Headquarters pass. However, he met Kemi Badenoch on several occasions in his capacity as chief executive of Turning Point UK. He also met other right-wing politicians including former Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.
According to Al Jazeera's reporting, Ross stood as a Conservative candidate in 2023, though he is no longer listed as a party member following the suspension.
What is the police response?
Police Scotland said it was aware of the documentary and would review it for possible criminality, though no charges or outcome had been reported at the time of available coverage.
What happens next?
The Conservative Party's investigation into Ross remains pending, with the party stating it could not comment further while the investigation was ongoing. Turning Point UK has been approached for comment on the allegations.
