Ex-MP urges Tories to drop candidate jailed for campaign of antisemitic abuse against her

A former Member of Parliament has called on the Conservative party leader to withdraw their candidate, who was previously jailed for a campaign of antisemitic abuse against her. Luciana Berger stated that Joshua Bonehill-Paine should not have a role in public life due to his "racism and his view of women."

Berger, who is Jewish, was the target of Bonehill-Paine's abuse. Despite his conviction and jail sentence, the Conservative party has defended his selection. Kemi Badenoch, a Conservative official, insisted on Tuesday that the party believes in "second chances."

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his racism and his view of women

This situation has ignited debate within the party and the public sphere regarding candidate vetting and the appropriateness of selecting individuals with a history of hate speech and criminal convictions for public office. The former MP's plea highlights concerns about the impact of such candidates on the party's image and inclusivity.

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second chances