Keeping MPs safe

LONDON mayor Sadiq Khan revealed the extent of the threats he faces from racists, admitting he is the first mayor of the city who needs 24-hour armed security protection. The British Pakistani politician said his heritage and religion were frequently cited in threats against him.

In recent days, Labour MPs Tulip Siddiq and Zarah Sultana have both said they have also been subjected to racist abuse and attacks.

Sultana has spoken about how she has been “subjected to a barrage of hate” since being elected two years ago, while Siddiq said her car had been vandalised in a targeted attack.

This is not the first time that MPs from ethnic backgrounds have faced racism. In 2018, five MPs – including then-housing secretary Sajid Javid – were sent suspicious packages including copies of a ‘Punish a Muslim’ letter that encouraged violent acts against Muslims.

Other Asian MPs, such as Afzal Khan, Rupa Huq and Suella Braverman, have openly admitted that their ethnicity had been used against them in online comments and emails.

In 2017, an Amnesty study found that black and Asian female MPs received 35 per cent more abusive tweets than their white colleagues.

Unfortunately, these sorts of threats could likely deter members of ethnic minorities from pursuing a career in politics or public life, as they fear they could be targeted for their race or religion.

Strong legislation as well as punishment, combined with co-operation between social media firms, ministers and the police can be the first step in deterring those bent on abusing elected representatives.

Politicians also must speak up about their experiences – staying quiet means the true extent of the problem is not revealed, so acting against abusers does not become the priority it should be.