Speaking her mind

DOES Rupa Huq losing the whip for calling Kwasi Kwarteng ‘superficially black’ mean free speech is not welcome in Keir Starmer’s Labour Party?

In the business world, employers

pay us to comply with rules and eject us if we don’t do so. But party leaders don’t pay MPs; society does. Political parties are not controlled environments. They are a reflection of society; unwieldy and free.

When we disagree with people, in my opinion we should take note, not trigger a series of controlling events. I think Huq’s words were offensive and culturally appropriative. But if she hadn’t said what she did, would she still think it? Now her ‘truth’ is out, the electorate can make more informed decisions about voting for her, and the party leader can pass her over for promotion (or not) on the basis of that knowledge.

Removing the whip from Huq shows that in Starmer’s Labour Party, free speech is unwelcome and if they win the next General Election, Labour will be in control. Imagine that.

HARRIET GOULD, Gamlingay, Cambs.