Allegations against Frank Hester for racist remarks aimed at Diane Abbott prompt investigation and spark debates on racism and political donations.
West Yorkshire Police is investigating allegations of racist remarks made by Frank Hester, a significant Conservative party donor, towards Diane Abbott, the UK’s longest-serving black MP. The remarks, reportedly made during a 2019 meeting in Horsforth, Leeds, include Hester stating that Abbott made him “want to hate all black women” and suggesting that she “should be shot.” The case, dubbed “Operation Brassminster,” was initially referred to by the Metropolitan Police following a complaint from Abbott and is being led by West Yorkshire Police due to the location of the incident.
Hester, the founder of healthcare technology firm TPP, has acknowledged being rude about Abbott in a private meeting years ago but claimed that his criticism was not based on her gender or skin colour. Despite the controversy, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has condemned the comments as “racist and wrong” but has stopped short of suggesting that the Conservative party should return the £10m donation received from Hester last year. Hester has reached out to Abbott to apologize for the remarks and insisted on his stance against racism.
Abbott, now sitting as an independent MP after being suspended by the Labour party, highlighted the danger of such remarks, especially for public figures using public transportation. The police have urged anyone with relevant information to assist in the investigation by contacting them.
This incident has sparked significant discussion inside and outside the Conservative party, raising concerns about the implications of accepted donations and the party’s associated with controversial figures. As inquiries continue, the political and social ramifications of Hester’s comments remain under close scrutiny.
