Cabinet minister Kemi Badenoch has publicly denounced a wave of racist abuse directed at her and her family, describing the threats as "vile" and calling for immediate police intervention.
The Business Secretary revealed she had been targeted with racist slurs and threats, including disturbing messages about her children. Speaking to The Mirror, Badenoch stated: "This isn't just about me - it's about the kind of society we want to live in."
Growing Concern Over Online Hate
The incident highlights the increasing problem of online abuse faced by public figures, particularly women of colour in politics. Badenoch, who serves as Minister for Women and Equalities alongside her business portfolio, has been an outspoken critic of identity politics.
Police have confirmed they are investigating the threats, though no arrests have been made yet. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said: "We take all reports of hate crime seriously."
Political Reactions
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak led cross-party condemnation of the abuse, stating: "There's no place for racism in our society." Labour leader Keir Starmer echoed these sentiments, calling the abuse "disgusting and unacceptable."
The incident comes amid heightened political tensions in Westminster, with experts warning that online abuse could deter diverse candidates from entering politics.
