Angela Rayner comments on reports the Conservatives have selected a candidate who participated in antisemitic and homophobic abuse of an MP

Angela Rayner MP, Labour’s Deputy Leader, commenting on reports the Conservatives have selected a candidate who participated in antisemitic and homophobic abuse of an MP, said:

“We all have a responsibility to call out antisemitism when we see it. But even after investigating, the Conservatives appear to be happy to endorse a candidate who accused a Jewish MP of lying about her religion and using her sexual orientation to win votes.

“These views have absolutely no place in politics. And without robust action to root them out of their ranks, the Tories are sending the message that they are not serious about tackling discrimination in wider society.”

Ends

Notes to Editors

1. Tory Chair Amanda Milling wrote to Charlotte Nichols last month to confirm that the Conservative Party was investigating Warrington Conservatives: https://www.warringtonguardian.co.uk/news/19077603.conservatives-investigating-allegations-towns-tories/

1. Wendy Maisey, Chair of Warrington Conservatives, made comments about Charlotte Nichols’ religion, sexuality and said that she would fake being disabled: https://www.theguardian.com/news/2021/feb/08/tory-council-candidate-deselected-antisemitic-tweet-to-jewish-labour-mp-charlotte-nichols