The newly appointed Technology Secretary has criticized Elon Musk for allegedly encouraging violence and animosity in the UK. Liz Kendall, who assumed the position during this month’s cabinet reshuffle, condemned the Twitter owner for his remarks at a Tommy Robinson rally where he warned of impending violence.
Musk has come under fire from various UK officials, including Keir Starmer, for his statements suggesting that right-wing individuals must prepare for violence or face dire consequences. Speaking via video link to the London march attendees, Musk emphasized the inevitability of violence and the need to either resist or perish.
Expressing her displeasure, Ms. Kendall denounced the tech mogul’s comments, accusing him of deliberately fostering discord within society. She emphasized that instigating violence and spreading hatred does not align with the desires of the British populace.
Meanwhile, London Mayor Sadiq Khan criticized Donald Trump and his circle for exacerbating far-right politics globally, particularly in recent years. In an article for The Guardian coinciding with the US President’s state visit, Khan highlighted the importance of unity against fear-mongering tactics.
When asked about Khan’s stance, Ms. Kendall diverged, asserting that Elon Musk is the primary driver of division rather than Trump. She acknowledged the significance of maintaining a positive relationship with the US and its leadership for national security and economic opportunities in the UK.
The recent clash of opinions follows a series of events, including the Unite the Kingdom rally in London, which saw significant unrest resulting in injuries to numerous officers. Keir Starmer condemned the violence that unfolded during the rally, labeling it as a chilling experience for many across the country, especially ethnic minority communities.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the debate surrounding the role of influential figures like Musk and Trump in shaping societal discourse remains a contentious issue that is being closely monitored by officials and the public alike.