Ex-Labour councillor Oliver Steadman has appeared in court facing a charge of blackmail in connection with the alleged ‘honeytrap’ plot targeting men involved in Westminster politics last year.

Mr Steadman, 28, was arrested in June 2024 and later charged with one count of blackmailing then Conservative MP William Wragg in order to get the telephone numbers of up to 12 individuals.

He has also been charged with five communications offences including four relating to the sending of “alleged unsolicited indecent images”.

Prosecutor Vincent Scully said the charges, which span 8 October 2023 to 31 March 2024, were all linked.

Steadman spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address during the hearing.

He has been granted unconditional bail and is due to appear at Southwark Crown Court on 1 December.

Mr Steadman was suspended as a Labour member after the party was notified of his arrest in June 2024.

He resigned as a councillor in Islington, north London, the following month.

It is understood Mr Steadman remains suspended, pending a party investigation, which has been paused while legal proceedings are ongoing.