27 September 2019

Andy Bentley and Steve Thompson, the Green Party Parliamentary candidates for Swindon, have backed a move calling for a stop to the hate-filled and divisive language that has come to the fore in politics this week.

In a letter released today they have joined Labour and Liberal Democrat politicians and many individuals and representatives from a wide range of political and other organisations across Swindon.

In announcing his support, Andy Bentley, their North Swindon candidate said:

“At a time where the country is already so divided, the language that our politicians, the media and other influencers use is important.

*It has consequences*.”

The letter follows scenes in Parliament where Boris Johnson was roundly condemned for his use of incendiary language, and against background where judges and politicians have been branded as traitors and enemies of the people by some media outlets. Many politicians have reported escalating levels of abuse and death threats, with the murder of MP Jo Cox still fresh in the thoughts of many. 

According to Bentley:

“Robust argument is a good thing. Using language that incites hatred and violence, and that undermines our political institutions and the rule of law, is not.”

 

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