Labour's Jenny Riddell-Carpenter, Defra minister and MP for Suffolk Coastal, has sparked outrage after suggesting that a Britain based on countryside pubs, warm ale and labradors was a far-right fantasy that never existed.
The remarks were made at a Labour conference fringe meeting this week, with critics questioning the minister's judgment, particularly as she has been photographed in country pubs drinking with her own dog, Pepe.
Backlash and climbdown
Following the backlash, Riddell-Carpenter began backpedalling on social media, posting: "Do I think country pubs and labradors are Far Right No way Hosay." The post drew ridicule for the unusual phrasing, with commentators noting the American slang expression is "No way Jose".
The controversy has raised questions about Labour ministers' attitudes towards traditional countryside culture, with critics asking what is far-right about country pubs or black labradors.
Other controversies
In other news, Elizabeth Debicki is set to be the Royal Shakespeare Company's first ever female Richard II, a decision that has been criticised given the availability of stellar male actors such as Kenneth Branagh, Daniel Day-Lewis, Ralph Fiennes and Benedict Cumberbatch.
Earl Spencer has described the King's response to his book about Diana as "very aggressive", though the King's measured response was noted: "The pain of fraternal grief can cloud reason, affect judgement and colour memory."
The new Strictly presenting team has also come under fire, with criticism of the three-man lineup and suggestions that those responsible should be sacked.
Further reactions
Marks & Spencer's decision to replace Dawn French with Lucy Punch in their Christmas ads has been welcomed, with French's removal linked to her antisemitic remarks mocking the Oct 7 tragedy and other controversial statements.
Prince Harry is to make a documentary about Princess Diana 30 years after her death, while the Green Party has issued a guide for inclusive language banning words such as 'mother' and 'father'. The guide also prohibits 'lunatics' and 'nutters', which has been met with derision given the party's recent controversies.
