Minister’s husband describes Covid-19 as ‘a mental illness’
A TORY minister has defended her husband for describing Covid-19 as a “mental illness” and attending an anti-lockdown march in London.
High-flying banker Alistair “Sandy” McFadzean is married to Cabinet Office minister Chloe Smith.
He posted pictures of the conspiracy theory march where others called for social distancing, Track and Trace and face covering rules to be scrapped.
Protesters at the march called for Ms Smith’s colleague, Health Secretary Matt Hancock, to be jailed.
And in July Mr McFadzean wrote on social media: “Covid-19 is most likely an outbreak of mental illness.”
In another post, Mr McFazdean denied the virus exists, writing: “Government need to be clear. Either there is a killer virus on the loose or there isn’t. (Spoiler alert: There isn’t)”
Ms Smith defended her husband, saying he was entitled to his opinions.
She said: “My husband is a private citizen. Everyone is entitled to their views and to debate. My own views are on the record and I’ll carry right on working for my constituents.”
While Ms Smith is not directly responsible for Covid-19 policy, as Minister for the Constitution she did take the decision to cancel local and mayoral elections this year.
In July, she told the Spectator: “That was my contribution to emergency legislation – postponing elections. I’ll go down in the history books.”
Ms Smith went into self-isolation after Tory colleague Nadine Dorries tested positive for Covid-19 on March 10. Her office did not respond when asked if Credit Suisse vicepresident Mr McFadzean isolated at the same time.
On March 16, Ms Smith posted a video explaining she was “no longer required” to stay at home, and was back in Parliament.
Former Parachute Regiment officer Mr McFazdean’s Twitter account was deleted on Wednesday after Ms Smith was contacted by journalists.
Everyone is entitled to their views. My own views are on record
CHLOE SMITH MINISTER DEFENDS BANKER HUBBY