British Interior Minister James Cleverly has issued an apology after facing criticism for making a joke about spiking his wife’s drink, a comment that has sparked outrage and calls for his resi yourgnation.
The Controversial Remark
According to a report by the Sunday Mirror, Cleverly allegedly made the inappropriate comment during an event this month, where he reportedly joked to female guests about spiking his wife’s drink with a sedative known for its association with date-rape incidents. The remark suggested that adding “a little bit” of the substance to his wife’s drink every night was “not really illegal.” He went on to quip that the key to a long marriage was keeping one’s spouse “mildly sedated” so they wouldn’t realize there were better options out there.
Apoology and Clarification
In response to the backlash, a spokesperson for Cleverly released a statement, asserting that the comments were intended as an ironic joke in what was perceived as a private conversation. The statement conveyed Cleverly’s apologies for any offense caused.
Calls for Resignation
The Fawcett Society, a prominent women’s rights charity, has called for Cleverly’s resignation in light of the incident. The charity’s demand echoes sentiments expressed by the UK’s opposition Labour Party, whose home affairs policy spokeswoman, Yvette Cooper, deemed the remarks “truly unbelievable.” Cooper emphasized the seriousness of drink-spiking as a crime, expressing concerns about Cleverly’s ability to be trusted in overseeing efforts to tackle violence against women and girls.
Political Implications
The controversy comes at a time when the Labour Party holds a strong lead in opinion polls over the governing Conservatives, as the country anticipates a national election expected next year. The incident has added fuel to the ongoing debate about the appropriateness of public figures making light of sensitive issues, especially those related to women’s safety.
As the public awaits further developments, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of sensitivity and responsibility in public discourse, particularly for officials tasked with addressing and preventing serious crimes.
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Credit; Reuters