The Metropolitan Police has issued an apology following a data breach in which an email containing the names and email addresses of victims involved in the Westminster 'honeytrap' scandal was inadvertently sent to all recipients.

The breach occurred during an update on the investigation into flirtatious messages from individuals referred to as 'Charlie' or 'Abi' targeting MPs, staffers, and political journalists.

The email, meant to inform 18 people of a change in a suspect's bail date due to a fire at Charing Cross police station, was sent with recipients' details visible in the CC field instead of being concealed in the BCC field.

The Met is investigating and has referred the breach to the Information Commissioner’s Office.

Victims, including MPs and journalists, expressed frustration and distress over the release of their personal information.

The Metropolitan Police pledged to personally apologize to those affected and await guidance on further action from the Information Commissioner’s Office.

The investigation continues following the arrest of a Labour member on charges related to harassment and Online Safety Act offenses in June.

Former Conservative MP William Wragg has also revealed personal struggles linked to the pressures of sharing sensitive information.