I’ve had plenty of online abuse, but I still don’t think MPs deserve special treatment | Diane Abbott
‘Theresa May announced today that the government will consult on making the abuse of MPs a criminal offence.’ [Image: Pool/Reuters].
The prime minister has chosen to mark the centenary of women’s suffrage with a call for greater protection for MPs and others against abuse. She announced today that the government would consult on making the abuse of MPs a criminal offence. As someone with more than enough experience of personal abuse and threats, in my judgment this is a thoroughly misguided intervention, and Theresa May should have a rethink.
It is unclear why MPs or other elected representatives should have special treatment in law to protect them. There are already laws against violence, threats, intimidation, harassment and stalking. But the experience of victims shows that the law is too often a dead letter. It is only when the situation has escalated beyond control that there is effective police intervention.
No one in public life should ever diminish the real risks that exist. The brutal terrorist murder of one of our own, Jo Cox MP, should put paid to any complacency. Numerous other politicians have also faced lethal threats and extreme violence. We do need safeguards. But so do the public.
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What about the Evil Tories abuse of, Disabled, rape victims,Child abuse victims, Homeless People and Veterans!! What about them!! The Tory Thugs Have Murdered thousands of people yet they whimper about a few Criticisms from a disgusted public.
I almost wish I was on Facebook I would give them a piece of my mind Politely of course, they would Never make the charges stick, in fact I would like see them try to prosecute anyone and make it stick!!!!
Diane Abbott I have a great respect for her, but the Tory scum there is no respect
I agree wholeheartedly with the post (above) from “Joanna”.
Thank you NMac :0)
This happens all of the time. Instead of looking at the existing law, certain groups are given special privilege; this is divisive. The law is the law and we are all supposed to be equal under it. Diane Abbott is right but who will listen to her?