British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has issued a stern warning against the rising toxicity within politics, particularly amidst reports of Members of Parliament (MPs) facing security threats over their stances on the Israel-Gaza conflict. Sunak, 43, condemned the hijacking of protests by extremists to glorify terrorism and expressed grave concern over the safety of MPs. He labeled the surge in prejudice and antisemitism since the Hamas attacks in October 2023 as “unacceptable” and “un-British,” emphasizing that antisemitism is unequivocally a form of racism.
The Prime Minister’s statement came in the wake of revelations that three unnamed female MPs have been provided with additional security due to safety concerns. These concerns were exacerbated by offensive projections on the Palace of Westminster and chaotic scenes in the Commons during a Gaza ceasefire vote. Sunak emphasized that such intimidation tactics send a dangerous signal and undermine the fundamental liberties and values cherished in Britain.
The Conservative Party faced internal turmoil following the suspension of party MP Lee Anderson, who made controversial remarks about Pakistani-origin London Mayor Sadiq Khan during an interview, drawing accusations of racism and Islamophobia from Labour Leader Keir Starmer. Starmer condemned Anderson’s remarks as “embarrassing” for the Conservative Party, warning that they empower the worst elements in politics.
Former home secretary Suella Braverman also sparked controversy with her article alleging that Islamists and extremists were gaining influence across British society. Braverman’s assertions were met with criticism from Opposition parties, who dismissed them as extreme rhetoric. The tensions further escalated after Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle’s decision to select certain amendments to a motion related to the Gaza ceasefire, aimed at safeguarding MPs’ safety.
In response to the escalating security concerns, UK Security Minister Tom Tugendhat has collaborated with various authorities to enhance the safety and security of MPs. Measures include the involvement of the royal and VIP executive committee (RAVEC) to assess threats to MPs and the provision of close protection and chauffeur-driven cars to female MPs at risk. A senior security source revealed that many MPs are fearful due to the abuse they face, highlighting the urgency of addressing these security challenges.
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