UK MP says she was fired from minister job for her ‘Muslimness’
Al JazeeraNov 27, 2021
UK: Conservative MP Sacked for Urging Ceasefire in Gaza
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Image copyright: Richard Townshend [via Wikimedia Commons]
The Facts
Conservative MP Paul Bristow has been removed from his position as a ministerial aide, after writing a letter to PM Rishi Sunak urging the UK government to change its stance on the Israel-Gaza war and support a “permanent” ceasefire.
Bristow had served as the parliamentary private secretary to Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan. In his letter sent on Oct. 26, the Tory MP for Peterborough wrote that a “permanent ceasefire” in Gaza would save lives and allow aid to reach people in need. He also warned against the “collective punishment” of people in Gaza.
The Spin
Left narrative
Divisions over the conflict between Israel and Hamas have spread beyond the British public — they're now undermining the heart of government. While Home Secretary Suella Braverman faces criticism for labelling pro-Palestine protests "hate marches," Sunak has been forced to sack an aide for compromising the government's collective responsibility. These are troubling signs for conservative party unity.
Right narrative
No. 10 has taken quick and decisive action to maintain the integrity of key government principles. Meanwhile, Kier Starmer's labour party is scrabbling to establish its position, and its leader has failed to discipline frontbenchers who have criticized the party-line. Opposition supporters must hope that their leader can demonstrate the same degree of strength in decision making shown by Sunak before the next election.
