Minister of Federal Economic Development Northern Ontario Tony Clement. Photo courtesy of Industry Canada.
Minister of Federal Economic Development Northern Ontario Tony Clement. Photo courtesy of Industry Canada.
London

MP asked to leave Conservative caucus after sexting scandal

After stepping down from his committee responsibilities amid a sex scandal, Tony Clement has now been asked to leave the Conservative caucus.

Conservative Party leader Andrew Scheer has said new information shows the indiscretions may not be an isolated incident.

"While I’m greatly disappointed with Mr. Clement’s actions, " said Scheer. "I am encouraged that he has decided to seek help and I wish him all the best in doing so."

Social media commenters weren't surprised to hear Clement was caught up in a sexting mess.

Claire McWatt, former chair of the youth cabinet, posted a thread on Twitter detailing her experiences with Clement.

"This guy is always there to "like" your pics," said one tweet. "It's what you expect from some distant high school Facebook friend, not an MP."

Clement's social media accounts have been quiet since the news broke.

Before Question Period today, Scheer dodged questions about the potential of Clement running under the Conservative flag in 2019.

“Right now in the short term, we’re focusing on the fact he’s no longer a member of our caucus," Scheer told reporters.

Deputy party leader Lisa Raitt has assumed Clement's shadow minister role until a new minister is named.

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