Former Conservative MP Wallis admits harassing ex-wife

A former Conservative MP has pleaded guilty to harassing her ex-wife.

Jamie Wallis, who is now known as Katie Wallis and uses female pronouns, represented Bridgend from 2019 to 2024.

At an earlier hearing, the 41-year-old from Butetown in Cardiff had denied harassing Rebecca Wallis, now known as Rebecca Lovell, between 14 February and 21 March.

Wallis was due to stand trial on Tuesday but changed her plea and admitted harassment by making unwanted phone calls, sending unwanted messages and a voice note.

District Judge Rhys Williams told the defendant that sentencing will take place on 14 July.

Wallis, who is the first MP to openly begin the process of gender transitioning, told the court: “Legally I am known as Jamie, but I prefer to be known as Katie.”

The court previously heard the defendant and alleged victim were in a relationship for more than 15 years and separated in 2020, with their divorce finalised in 2024.

Narita Bahra KC, defending, said her client has taken “the very pragmatic view” to plead guilty after hearing the effect the case had had on Rebecca Lovell.

Ms Bahra added that further psychiatrist assessment would be needed along with a pre-sentence report to examine what effect Wallis’ gender transition had during the period of offending.

She said it was important to know “what was happening in Dr Wallis’ life and mind” at that time.