Marc Wadsworth, a 70-year-old black rights activist who was expelled from the Labour Party in 2018, has appeared in court facing two serious sexual assault charges. Wadsworth attended Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, where he spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth during the brief hearing.
Details of the Alleged Offences
The charges stem from an incident on September 5, 2022. Wadsworth is accused of touching a woman without consent and assaulting her by penetration. No pleas were entered during the initial court appearance, and the case has been escalated to a higher court for further proceedings.
Bail Conditions and Future Court Date
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Wadsworth was granted unconditional bail. He is scheduled to appear at Croydon Crown Court on April 1, where formal pleas are expected to be entered and the case will progress through the judicial system.
Background: Labour Party Expulsion
Wadsworth's expulsion from the Labour Party occurred in 2018 following a controversial incident at a 2016 press conference. The event was launching the Chakrabarti report on anti-Semitism within the party, and Wadsworth used his platform to make allegations against then-MP Ruth Smeeth.
During the televised launch, Wadsworth took the microphone and stated, 'I saw that The Telegraph handed a copy of a press release to Ruth Smeeth MP so you can see who is working hand in hand.' His comments created immediate shock among attendees, with one audience member exclaiming, 'Are you serious? How dare you.'
The remarks deeply affected Ms. Smeeth, who left the event visibly distressed and broke down in tears. This incident led to Wadsworth's initial suspension from the Labour Party, followed by his formal expulsion two years later after disciplinary proceedings.
Activist Career and Organisations
Prior to his expulsion, Wadsworth had established himself as a prominent activist in anti-racism circles. He founded the Anti-Racist Alliance in 1991, an organisation dedicated to combating racial discrimination and promoting equality. Additionally, he ran Momentum Black Connexions, a group focused on engaging black communities within the broader Labour movement.
His career as an activist spanned decades, making his current legal troubles particularly notable given his previous public profile. The court case represents a significant development in the ongoing story of a figure who has been both celebrated for his anti-racism work and controversial for his political actions.
The upcoming hearing at Croydon Crown Court will determine how the legal process unfolds, with the prosecution presenting evidence and Wadsworth having the opportunity to respond to the allegations through his legal representation.
