Controversy Surrounds Reform UK Councillor's Facebook Post Calling for Violence Against Labour MP

Cllr Simon Evans, a senior member of Reform UK and deputy leader of Lancashire County Council, has come under fire for liking a Facebook post that included a call for violence against Labour MP Natalie Fleet. The post, which Evans reshared, stated, “You dozy cow… you should be shot,” and was accompanied by a misleading image suggesting Fleet had voted against a grooming gang inquiry. This incident has raised significant concerns about the safety of politicians, particularly women, in the current political climate.

Exclusive: No suspension for Reform councillor who shared post calling for female MP to be shotThe IndependentThe Guardian

Labour's Alex Davies-Jones, Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, condemned the post as “grotesque and misogynistic,” urging Reform UK leader Nigel Farage to take immediate action against Evans. Davies-Jones emphasized that such rhetoric has no place in society and criticized Farage for tolerating extremist views within his party. Fleet herself remarked on the prevalence of such threats, stating, “Posts like this are so common I don’t bat an eyelid,” but highlighted the emotional toll it takes on her family and the broader implications for women in politics.

The Independent

Following the backlash, Evans issued an apology, claiming he did not fully notice the accompanying text of the post and described it as an “honest mistake.” He stated, “I would never intentionally call for or wish violence upon anyone,” and expressed regret for any offense caused. Despite the explicit nature of the post, Reform UK has decided not to take disciplinary action against Evans, asserting that the incident was unintentional and that they accept his apology.

The Guardian

The decision not to suspend Evans has drawn criticism from various quarters, including anti-extremist group Hope Not Hate, which labeled the party's response as “repugnant.” Georgie Laming, the group's director of campaigns, argued that such a serious matter should not be dismissed as a mistake and called for Evans to be reported to the police. This incident has reignited discussions about the treatment of female politicians, with many highlighting a growing culture of intimidation and hostility in political discourse.

Exclusive: No suspension for Reform councillor who shared post calling for female MP to be shot

This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing threats and violence against politicians, particularly women. The political landscape has seen a rise in aggressive rhetoric, with Fleet's experiences as a grooming survivor adding a poignant layer to the discussion. She has been a vocal advocate for issues related to grooming and violence against women, emphasizing the need for a safe political environment where representatives can serve without fear of threats.

Exclusive: No suspension for Reform councillor who shared post calling for female MP to be shot

• “ Alex Davies-Jones MP, Labour’s minister for victims and tackling violence against women and girls, said: “This grotesque and misogynistic call to violence has absolutely no room in society.” — Alex Davies-Jones, Labour Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls

The Independent

• “I would never intentionally call for or wish violence upon anyone.” — Cllr Simon Evans, Reform UK

The Independent

• “We should be able to fight for our areas w/o death threats as standard.” — Natalie Fleet, Labour MP for Bolsover

Exclusive: No suspension for Reform councillor who shared post calling for female MP to be shot

This incident highlights the urgent need for a reassessment of the political discourse surrounding women and the responsibilities of political parties in addressing threats against their members.

Exclusive: No suspension for Reform councillor who shared post calling for female MP to be shot