Fresh Discontent Among Conservatives
Fresh discontent is brewing among Conservatives over Downing Street’s response to the party’s biggest donor reportedly making racist remarks about black MP Diane Abbott.
Alleged Racist Remarks by Frank Hester
On Monday, The Guardian reported Frank Hester, who has donated £10m to the Conservative party in the last year, made racist remarks during a meeting in 2019. He allegedly expressed hateful sentiments towards Abbott, the UK’s longest serving black MP.
- Hester reportedly said, “It’s like trying not to be racist but you see Diane Abbott on the TV and you’re just like, I hate, you just want to hate all black women because she’s there, and I don’t hate all black women at all, but I think she should be shot.”
- In response, Abbott described Hester’s alleged remarks as “frightening” and highlighted the alarming nature of such talk in light of recent MP murders.
Reactions and Responses
In a statement, Trade Secretary and Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch labeled the remarks as racist but also called for space for forgiveness with contrition.
- Badenoch stated, “Hester’s 2019 comments, as reported, were racist. I welcome his apology. Abbott and I disagree on a lot. But the idea of linking criticism of her, to being a black woman is appalling.”
While some senior Tories condemned the language reportedly used by Hester, others hesitated to label it as racist. Former Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and Chief Executive Albie Amankona criticized the party’s response for not outright condemning the remarks.
Call for Accountability
Former Conservative MP Alastair Burt called for the return of Hester’s donation and emphasized the racist and violent nature of the reported comments.
These events highlight the need for effective communication and handling of bigotry-related incidents within the party.