SNP MP Lara Bird has been accused of showing disrespect towards Scottish soldiers who died in the Falklands War after she celebrated Argentina's World Cup victory over England. The politician, who represents Arbroath and Broughty Ferry, posted a message on social media joking about 'cross party cooperation' between Scotland and Argentina following England's 2-1 semi-final defeat on Wednesday.
Social Media Backlash
Ms Bird shared a photo of herself alongside Scottish Labour MP Euan Stainbank, with both a Scottish and an Argentinian flag. The post quickly drew criticism from social media users who reminded her of the eight members of the Scots Guards killed during the 1982 conflict, along with Scottish-born soldiers from other regiments. One X user wrote: 'Shameful and disrespectful to the Scottish soldiers who died fighting in the Falklands.' Another labelled the pair 'pathetic' and 'an embarrassment to Scotland'.
Context of the Falklands Conflict
The Falkland Islands have been a British overseas territory since the early 19th century. Argentina invaded the archipelago in April 1982, leading to a 10-week war that ended with the surrender of Argentine forces in June. The islands, located roughly 300 miles off the coast of Argentina, held a referendum in 2013 in which islanders voted overwhelmingly to remain British.
Argentina's Controversial Banner
Tensions were further inflamed when Argentine players held up a banner after the match declaring the Falkland Islands to be Argentinian. The team is expected to face disciplinary action from FIFA over the political statement. A spokesperson for the Falkland Islands Government expressed disappointment, stating: 'It is hardly news to anyone that the people of the Islands were victims of an aggressive invasion in 1982, which left many traumatised. The banner displayed by Argentina last night, therefore, was particularly insensitive for many people in the Falklands.'
MP's Accent Controversy
Ms Bird, who was sworn in as an MP last month, also faced ridicule online over claims that she had put on a Scottish accent. Social media users noted a difference between her voice in the House of Commons and in previous online clips. The 28-year-old spoke with a distinctly Scottish accent during the swearing-in ceremony, but earlier videos shared on her social media accounts sound noticeably more English. Ms Bird has previously attributed her mixed intonations to time spent in London and having an English parent.
The Express has contacted Lara Bird and Euan Stainbank for comment.
