By Lucy Caulkett-
Former Member of Parliament Diane Abbott(pictured) has come forward to address insidious comments allegedly made by a prominent Conservative donor, Frank Hester five years ago.
Hester’s reported remarks, expressing a desire to “hate all black women” and suggesting that Abbott “needed to be shot,” will spark outrage and concern over the potential prevalence of racism and violence among Mps over political disagreements.
It is the first time the comments are being made public.
TPP didn’t deny Hester making the remarks, but described the comments as “rude” ,adding that the TPP CEO was “deeply sorry for his comments” and condemned racism.
Hester has made himself a high-profile national figure by becoming the single biggest donor to the Conservative party. Last May he donated £5m to the party and TPP has since made four separate donations totalling over £5m, taking total donations to over £10m.
Underlying the comments were the idea that the views or ideological standpoint of a politician or individual is representative of their race.
Yet, such is the potential impact of stereotypes when applied to everybody belonging to a particular demographic group.
Abbott, Britain’s longest-serving black MP, described the comments as “frightening” and highlighted the heightened sense of vulnerability she experiences as a single woman, particularly in her constituency of Hackney.
Coming in the wake of recent murders of MPs, Abbott rightfully points out the alarming nature of such rhetoric, which not only threatens individual safety but also undermines the integrity of democratic debate.
The alleged remarks, reportedly made in 2019, accentuates a troubling trend of racial and gender-based animosity in political circles.
Despite Hester’s apology, where he claims his comments were not related to Abbott’s gender or race, the implications of his words cannot be ignored.
They suggest a dangerous normalization of violence and bigotry towards black women in public life on the basis of the disapproval of a single black woman. This can also be seen to be a reflection of others who translate negative experiences with a member of one race to all other members of the same race.
Frank Hester confronted for racist remarks against Abbott
Labour party chair Anneliese Dodds was quick to label the comments as “clearly, unequivocally racist and sexist,” emphasizing the urgent need to confront and address such attitudes.
However, Downing Street’s response, while acknowledging the comments as “unacceptable,” falls short of condemning them outright, raising questions about the commitment to combating racism within political institutions.
Abbott’s suspension from the Labour party last year, following controversial remarks about racism experienced by various ethnic groups, adds another layer of complexity to this issue.
Labour leader Keir Starmer has condemned Hester’s alleged comments as “abhorrent,” acknowledging Abbott’s pioneering role in politics and the relentless abuse she has endured throughout her career.
Such condemnation from political leaders is crucial in reaffirming a commitment to inclusivity and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background or beliefs.
The gravity of Hester’s remarks cannot be overstated. They not only reflect a personal attack on Abbott but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to a climate of fear and hostility towards black women in public life. I
t is incumbent upon political parties and institutions to take decisive action to address such behavior and ensure accountability.
While there may be attempts to downplay the significance of Hester’s comments, it is essential to recognize them for what they are: manifestations of deep-seated racism and misogyny that have no place in a modern, democratic society.
The reluctance to discipline Hester sends a dangerous message that such behavior will be tolerated, further emboldening those who seek to spread hatred and division.