Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood criticized Reform MP Sarah Pochin for her controversial comments about Black and Asian representation in the media. Pochin, a close ally of Nigel Farage, faced backlash for expressing frustration at seeing Black and Asian individuals on TV. Mahmood addressed the issue at a political event, humorously mentioning Pochin’s viewing habits and suggesting she would keep her speech short if Pochin was present.
The incident led 35 MPs to request an investigation into whether Pochin violated the Parliamentary Code of Conduct. Despite criticism from Farage, Pochin has not been expelled from his party. The Runcorn and Helsby MP’s remarks on TV sparked further outrage, prompting Labour MP Dawn Butler to call for an investigation by standards tsar Daniel Greenberg, labeling the comments as racist.
Butler emphasized that such statements targeting specific racial groups have no place in public life and urged for a thorough examination of the matter to uphold standards of inclusivity and respect in Parliament. Farage expressed his dissatisfaction with Pochin’s comments but defended her against accusations of racism, refusing to take severe action against her.
Farage acknowledged the inappropriateness of Pochin’s words and stated that while he disagreed with her approach, he did not believe her intent was racially motivated. Despite the controversy, he stood by his decision not to penalize Pochin, who faced widespread condemnation from various political figures.