LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE
Hate faced by MP Mike Freer is attack on democracy, says Downing Street
Downing Street has denounced the severe hatred towards Conservative MP Mike Freer as an assault on UK democracy. Freer, facing death threats and an alleged arson at his office, announced his departure from politics.
02 February 2024 · 02:05 UTC
Speaker Lindsay Hoyle expressed regret over Freer's decision and called for a more respectful political climate in Parliament. He pledged to work on enhancing safety for MPs and their families.
Across the Commons, MPs condemned the abuse leading to Freer's resignation. Leader Penny Mordaunt spoke on the tragedy of MPs leaving due to harassment, while Labour's Lucy Powell voiced deep regret over the state of political safety. MP Barry Sheerman highlighted the growing pressure on public servants, urging for better support.
Freer, who won't run in the next election, detailed the threats that made him step down, including narrowly escaping an attack by the killer of MP Sir David Amess. He cited the concerns for his own and his family's wellbeing, including his husband Angelo, as the primary reasons for his decision.
The MP has also faced threats from the group Muslims Against Crusades and believes antisemitism played a part in the harassment due to his pro-Israel stance and the Jewish demographic in his Finchley and Golders Green constituency.
Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch confirmed antisemitism is a serious issue in the UK, acknowledging that Freer was targeted for his support of the Jewish community. Two suspects connected to the arson case plead not guilty and are awaiting trial.
In a move to promote decorum, MP Virginia Crosbie called on candidates in her Ynys Mon constituency to commit to a respectful general election campaign, especially on social media, to avoid personal attacks. She lamented the sad reality that MPs resort to wearing stab vests for protection.