Liz Truss Under Fire for Failing to Challenge Far-Right Extremist
Deputy PM Denies Truss Heard Tommy Robinson Branded a Hero
Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden defended Liz Truss amidst criticism for not challenging far-right activist Tommy Robinson’s praise, despite being in proximity to Steve Bannon when the comments were made. Dowden suggested that Truss might not have heard the remarks due to the circumstances, stating, “when you’ve got the cameras on, you’ve got a debate going on, sometimes you don’t hear it.”
Controversial Remarks at the Rochdale By-election
The uproar ensued after Liz Truss claimed a “radical Islamic party” could win the Rochdale by-election, prompting Steve Bannon to laud figures like Tommy Robinson as “heroes” for their actions. Truss, looking directly at Bannon, affirmed a query about the possibility of a “radical jihadist party” gaining parliamentary representation.
Criticism and Response
Former Cabinet member Sir Sajid Javid criticized Truss for not directly addressing Bannon’s statements, emphasizing the importance of confronting such rhetoric. The Muslim Council of Britain condemned Truss’s silence, labeling the portrayal of a “radical Islamic party” as Islamophobic and false.
Political Fallout
Deputy PM Dowden distanced himself from Bannon’s comments, expressing disagreement but citing the need for context. He acknowledged the language used as “over the top” while refusing to endorse the sentiments expressed.
Conspiracy Claims and Sidelining Advice
Following the incident, Truss’s ally Therese Coffey dismissed knowledge of the clip and defended Truss’s “deep state” theory as a legitimate viewpoint on institutional dynamics. Labour’s Jonathan Ashworth criticized Truss for spreading conspiracy theories and false information about a supposed “deep state” influencing government affairs.
Political Turmoil and Shadow of Truss’s Premiership
The impact of Truss’s brief premiership, culminating in 49 days, continues to reverberate through political circles. Disagreements over policies and decision-making processes have highlighted underlying tensions within the Conservative Party.
FAQs
What was the controversy surrounding Liz Truss?
The controversy stemmed from Truss’s failure to confront far-right activist Tommy Robinson’s praise during a discussion with Steve Bannon.
How did Deputy PM Oliver Dowden defend Liz Truss?
Oliver Dowden claimed that Truss may not have heard Tommy Robinson being lauded as a hero due to the distractions of being in a debate with cameras present.
What statements sparked criticism towards Liz Truss?
Liz Truss’s comments about a “radical Islamic party” potentially winning the Rochdale by-election, coupled with her affirmation of a query about a “radical jihadist party,” attracted condemnation.
Who criticized Liz Truss for her handling of the situation?
Former Cabinet member Sir Sajid Javid and the Muslim Council of Britain criticized Liz Truss for not challenging the far-right rhetoric and for perpetuating Islamophobic stereotypes.
What did Therese Coffey say in defense of Liz Truss?
Therese Coffey defended Liz Truss’s claims about a “deep state” influencing decision-making processes within institutions, portraying it as a valid perspective on governmental dynamics.
How has the fallout impacted Liz Truss’s political standing?
The fallout has raised questions about Truss’s leadership capabilities and decision-making, with critics pointing to her brief premiership as indicative of broader challenges within the Conservative Party.
