Ben Shephard had to interrupt a heated debate on Thursday's Good Morning Britain as guests argued over whether burning effigies of politicians should be allowed. The discussion was sparked by a bonfire society's plan to burn a 11-metre-high effigy of former Prime Minister Liz Truss, complete with a laughing lettuce on its shoulder.
Barrister Jerry Hayes argued in favour of the tradition, calling it 'harmless fun' and a way to 'take the mickey out of' politicians. He said: 'No one is shouting, "Kill Liz Truss and her pet lettuce", no one is taking to the streets with their pitchforks. All they're doing is just saying our politicians are ridiculous.'
Political commentator Lin Meistood disagreed, stating that the burning incites violence. She said: 'Liz Truss is still very present and with us, and we want to be able to attract people to join politics. This is not the way to go... it could actually incite criminal action.'
The debate caused division on Twitter, with some users criticising Meistood as 'joyless' while others supported her concerns. Ben Shephard ended the segment by saying: 'Lin, Jerry, unfortunately, we're going to have to leave it there.'
