The London Assembly has launched a scathing attack on The Sun, passing a motion that officially condemns the newspaper's recent front page as "racist and inflammatory." The motion, which gained cross-party support, accuses the publication of deliberately attempting to stir up racial divisions within the city.
The controversy stems from a headline published on 12th May, which screamed 'Go Back to Africa', a phrase with deeply offensive historical connotations. The piece was a criticism of London's Mayor, Sadiq Khan, and his trip to Atlanta, USA, for a marketing conference.
Cross-Party Condemnation in City Hall
The motion was originally put forward by the Green Party but found significant support across the political spectrum. Notably, even representatives from Reform UK declined to vote against it, choosing to abstain instead. This rare moment of unity underscores the severity of the headline and the widespread offence it caused.
The Assembly's statement didn't mince words, asserting that the headline "fuels racism and division" and was a "deliberate and calculated move" by the paper's editors. It calls for greater media responsibility and accountability in how communities are portrayed and discussed.
A Demand for Apology and Responsible Journalism
Beyond the condemnation, the motion also formally called upon The Sun to issue a full and public apology for the damage caused. It urges all media outlets operating in London to adhere to ethical standards that promote community cohesion rather than undermine it.
This official rebuke from the capital's governing body marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate about press standards, racism, and the power of headlines to shape public discourse and sentiment.
