Tory Backbenchers Backlash Against Rishi Sunak Over Lee Anderson Suspension
Possible Fallout for Struggling Tories
Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, is facing a significant backlash from Conservative backbenchers following his decision to suspend MP Lee Anderson for his derogatory comments towards London Mayor Sadiq Khan. WhatsApp exchanges among concerned party members indicate growing apprehension that the suspension of Mr. Anderson could deal a severe blow to the already struggling Tories.
Accusations of Racism and Islamophobia
Lee Anderson, the Member of Parliament for Ashfield, is under fire for allegations of racism and Islamophobia after suggesting that Mayor Sadiq Khan is influenced by Islamists. While Transport Secretary Mark Harper has refrained from labeling Anderson’s comments as racist, instead denouncing them as inappropriate, the Conservative headquarters has not definitively ruled out the possibility of reinstating the controversial MP.
Call for Investigation
The Muslim Council of Britain has urged Prime Minister Boris Johnson to initiate an inquiry into what they perceive as “structural Islamophobia” entrenched within the Conservative Party. The council expressed concerns about the display of anti-Muslim sentiments within the party, particularly underscored by the recent incident involving Lee Anderson. Following his remarks targeting Mayor Khan, Anderson was promptly suspended, sparking a wave of discontent among Tory members.
Internal Party Discord
Discord within the party ranks has become evident, with leaked WhatsApp conversations revealing discontent among Tory MPs regarding the repercussions of Anderson’s suspension. Backbenchers, including Julie Marson and Tom Hunt, voiced unease over Nigel Farage’s suggestion for Anderson to join Reform UK, hinting at potential divisions within the party. Constituents, as highlighted by Jill Mortimer, have expressed dissatisfaction with the party, citing Anderson’s suspension as a deciding factor in withdrawing support for the Tories.
Support for Anderson
Despite the controversy surrounding Lee Anderson, certain Conservative MPs have shown solidarity towards him. Sarah Dines and Sarah Atherton acknowledged receiving supportive messages from constituents, emphasizing a level of backing for Anderson within their respective constituencies. Member of Parliament Peter Gibson echoed this sentiment, reporting a positive response from his constituents regarding Anderson.
Potential Reconciliation
Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden hinted that Anderson could have avoided suspension had he apologized for his remarks. Transport Secretary Mark Harper hinted at the possibility of Anderson’s return to the Conservative fold but stressed the importance of retractions and apologies for the inflammatory comments made. While Harper advocated for Anderson’s reinstatement based on his previous contributions to the party, he refrained from explicitly labeling the remarks as racist, opting to characterize them as wrong.
FAQs
What sparked the backlash against Rishi Sunak?
The backlash against Rishi Sunak stemmed from his decision to suspend MP Lee Anderson for making derogatory comments about London Mayor Sadiq Khan, sparking accusations of racism and Islamophobia.
What did the Muslim Council of Britain urge Prime Minister Boris Johnson to do?
The Muslim Council of Britain called on Prime Minister Boris Johnson to launch an investigation into what they termed as “structural Islamophobia” within the Conservative Party.
How did Tory backbenchers react to Lee Anderson’s suspension?
Tory backbenchers expressed discontent over Lee Anderson’s suspension, with some indicating that it could have detrimental effects on the party’s standing, with constituents even stating they would not vote Tory again.
How did Deputy PM Oliver Dowden suggest Lee Anderson could have avoided suspension?
Deputy PM Oliver Dowden suggested that Lee Anderson could have avoided suspension if he had issued an apology for his controversial remarks about Mayor Sadiq Khan.
What was Transport Secretary Mark Harper’s stance on Lee Anderson’s potential return to the Tory party?
Transport Secretary Mark Harper left the door open for Lee Anderson to rejoin the Conservative Party, emphasizing the importance of retracting the comments and issuing an apology as prerequisites for reconciliation.
