Reform UK's by-election candidate Robert Kenyon has faced a disastrous interview over his past social media posts, which included sexist remarks and comments defending Russia's annexation of Crimea. The plumber is standing against Labour's Andy Burnham in the Makerfield by-election, a contest that could bolster Burnham's challenge to Keir Starmer.
In the interview, Kenyon was questioned about a post where he responded to a sexually graphic comment about TV presenter Carol Vorderman with a thumbs-up and laughing emoji, adding, "He's only saying what we're all thinking." Kenyon defended himself, saying, "I've not made sexual remarks about Carol Vorderman, somebody else did. But then I responded with a crass joke about that comment."
He was also challenged over a post stating, "I'm sexist, sorry but I am. Women can't referee, drive or give directions." Kenyon claimed the issue was resolved because his wife had once given him directions. He said, "I know that's false because my wife reminded me last night that she once directed us to Aberystwyth on an AA route map, so she's put that one to bed."
On the topic of Russia, Kenyon had written that Moscow was "within their rights" to invade Crimea in 2014. Asked if he was sympathetic to Putin, he replied, "Absolutely not. I served in the Army Reserve since, and I'm totally against the illegal annexation of Crimea and the invasion. It's something I've said. I'm a lot more informed now."
Kenyon also appeared flustered when asked about a post where he called Brexit something pushed by politicians who "peddled the nationalistic pish." He insisted he "100%" voted for Brexit, adding he had "no recollection of saying that" and did not know what "nationalistic pish" meant.
Labour MP Anna Turley condemned Kenyon, saying, "Robert Kenyon isn’t fit for office. His shameless attempt to try and brush off some of the appalling comments he’s made is a complete insult to voters in Makerfield." The by-election is scheduled for 18 June.
