MP called a ‘traitor’ by online trolls over Brexit

DISTRESSING ONLINE ABUSE FOR HER TO BE ‘SHOT AND HANGED’

A HULL MP says she has faced distressing calls online for her to be “shot and hanged” as the Brexit decision date has neared.

MPS have twice voted against Theresa May’s Brexit deal in recent weeks, with all three Hull representatives playing their part in heavily defeating the Prime Minister’s exit terms.

Hull North MP Diana Johnson has revealed that people on Facebook have called for her to be killed because of her position. The former minister is in favour of holding so-called “indicative votes” to determine what Brexit option – including a close alignment with the EU or even a second referendum – could secure a majority in the House of Commons if the PM’S deal cannot.

The Labour backbencher said: “Along with many other MPS, I have been accused of being a ‘traitor’ and had Facebook postings calling for me to be shot and hanged.

“It outrages a few that MPS are taking seriously the role of scrutinising the Government’s Brexit proposals, and judging whether they honour the promises made in 2016, rather than just rubberstamping whatever Theresa May puts forward.

“Some are equally offended whether MPS vote for or against the Prime Minister’s deal.

“The same people cannot separate how MPS voted as private citizens in the referendum from our role as MPS.

“Some resent us trying to represent all our constituents, seeking to understand why many who felt ignored and left behind voted leave, and reconciling the many differing views – from leave voters alone – about the way forward and what Brexit should mean.”

Both Ms Johnson and Emma Hardy, Labour MP for Hull West and Hessle, have taken to social media in recent weeks to warn followers and subscribers that they would block anyone sending them threatening messages or calling them a traitor.

Parliament’s authorities have told MPS not to travel alone next week over safety fears, with a series of crunch Brexit votes scheduled. Arrangements have been made for black cabs to pick up passengers from inside the Westminster estate so politicians do not have to wait on the street after voting.

The Commons is expected to be given the chance to vote for a third time on the PM’S exit deal next week after the EU agreed to extend the Article 50 deadline until at least April 12.

Should Mrs May’s third attempt fail, the Government is rumoured to be ready to allow “indicative votes” so MPS can clarify what Brexit option could secure a majority. Hull North MP Diana Johnson in the House of Commons