Reform MP Sarah Pochin has faced backlash over a comment perceived as insulting French allies who died in World War Two. Her remarks came after France's interior ministry rejected Nigel Farage's plan to use the Royal Navy to intercept small boats, calling it a violation of sovereignty.
Controversial comment
In response, Ms Pochin wrote: "Pity the French did not show the same resolve in defending their sovereignty in June 1940." This drew sharp criticism from various political figures, highlighting the sacrifices of French soldiers during the war.
Labour MP Sam Rushworth called the comment "disgusting," adding it "betrays our allies - the brave French resistance fighters who gave their lives, including facilitating the British retreat at Dunkirk." He said such comments show "why Reform is completely unfit to govern."
Political backlash
Fellow MP Josh Fenton-Glynn noted that over 200,000 French military personnel died in WWII, with 90,000 in 1940, questioning whether the ignorance was "performative or actual." Former Tory MP Gavin Barwell also condemned the remark, while ex-UKIP leader Henry Bolton pointed out France's significant losses, including 92,000 in 1940 and 24,000 resistance fighters.
The controversy follows Reform's unveiling of "Operation Fortress" on Monday, proposing a fleet in the Channel. The plan has been met with skepticism from military insiders and No10, which noted similar attempts had failed.
Plan details
In a 25-page document, Reform claimed the proposal would not lead to violence, stating: "We do not believe for one moment that the French nation or gendarmerie would open fire on Royal Marines conducting a humanitarian mission and transporting civilians." It added that the chance of confrontation with France was "incredibly low."
However, France's interior ministry responded: "This would be a violation of French sovereignty as well as a violation of maritime law and international law." Suspended Labour MP Karl Turner sarcastically remarked that Farage "thinks he can just declare war on France."
The plan comes as Farage faces falling ratings amid allegations about his finances. He confirmed secret talks about returning as party leader before the 2024 election, following a £5million 'gift' from crypto tycoon Christopher Harborne, which is under investigation by Parliament's standards commissioner.
