Controversy Ignites as Esther McVey’s Nazi Comparison in Smoking Ban Tweet Draws Sharp Criticism from Jewish Group

Jewish organization condemns Esther McVey's tweet on smoking restrictions

Ex-minister Esther McVey defended her decision to share a well-known poem by Martin Niemöller, which criticizes the passivity of certain groups during the Nazi era in Germany, stating that these were "relevant words" in the context of Labour's suggested policies for outdoor pub areas.

Political journalist @NifS

Friday, August 30, 2024, 7:

A statement made by a Conservative MP regarding plans to prohibit smoking in pub gardens was labeled as "repugnant" by the Board of Deputies of British Jews.

On Thursday, Sir Keir Starmer announced that his administration is considering bans on smoking in certain public areas, such as restaurant patios, nightclub exteriors, and select parks.

In reaction to recent developments, Esther McVey, the former "common sense" minister, shared a well-known poem by Martin Niemöller, which critiques the lack of opposition to the Nazis in Germany during World War II. She commented that the poem's message was especially relevant to Starmer’s proposed smoking ban.

The Jewish advocacy organization subsequently shared a statement on X, expressing that the use of language associated with "Nazi atrocities" to draw parallels with the proposals was "a thoughtless and offensive act."

They also said: "We urge the MP for Tatton to remove her tweet and apologize for this incredibly insensitive comparison."

Discover more: What's the mechanism behind banning smoking outdoors? It seems smoking in beer gardens may soon be a thing of the past.

Ms. McVey stated that it was "absurd for anyone to even imply" that she was comparing the two, and although she "did not mean to offend," she would "not be pressured" into removing the tweet.

Stay updated on the most recent developments both in the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting took to X with a critical reply, highlighting the former Conservative government's proposals to prohibit smoking among the youth and advising Ms. McVey to "get a grip."

He stated: "I don't believe Martin Niemöller's post-war reflection on the passive involvement of the German intellectuals and religious leaders during the ascent of the Nazis is relevant to a smoking bill that both our platforms promised to address as a major health issue."

Ellie Reeves, the chair of the Labour Party, described Ms. McVey's post as "grossly offensive," pointing out that she was a member of the Tory cabinet just a few months earlier. Reeves called for Conservative leader Rishi Sunak and all those vying to succeed him to denounce the post.

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In comments made to Sky News, Ms. McVey stated, "It's absurd to claim that prohibiting smoking outside pubs is comparable to the atrocities committed against the Jews by the Nazis. It's ridiculous to suggest that was my intention."

This concept is known as an analogy: those who limit freedoms often begin with vulnerable groups before broadening their scope.

"I believe it's clear to everyone that my comments were not meant to offend or draw any comparisons."

Criticizing the recently instated Labour government, which she labeled "socialist," she argued that its policies should alarm all citizens. She accused the administration of enacting legislation without proper authorization, citing examples such as taking funds from retirees, infringing on personal freedoms, and overseeing a biased policing and justice system.

She stated: "I refuse to be coerced into deleting a tweet by individuals who are intentionally misinterpreting my words and claiming to be offended when they understand that no offense was meant.

"There's already an excessive amount of this politically correct intimidation aimed at suppressing any opinions they disagree with. If they believe I can be coerced in such a manner, they've chosen the wrong person. It's necessary for someone to resist these urban politically correct intimidators."

Ms. McVey stated: "The real issue isn't my tweet; it's Starmer's deceit to gain power and his subsequent disregard for the public."

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Several Conservative MPs have criticized the proposed measures today, claiming that they infringe on individual liberties. Meanwhile, Nigel Farage, the leader of the Reform Party, has promised to boycott pubs should the regulation be implemented.

Industry insiders from the hospitality sector have also expressed concerns that this action will negatively impact their earnings.

Health charities have praised the initiative, stating it will safeguard individuals from the risks associated with second-hand smoke.

Sky News reached out to Ms. McVey and the Conservative Party seeking their comments.

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