Lee Anderson, the suspended Conservative MP for Ashfield, has received a significant show of support from the majority of Tory members, according to a recent poll conducted by the Conservative Home website. The survey, which involved 751 Tory members, revealed that 64% disagreed with the party’s decision to suspend Anderson in the midst of an Islamophobia controversy.
According to reports by Express News, Anderson faced suspension after refusing to apologize for claiming that London Mayor Sadiq Khan was controlled by Islamists. Despite admitting that his remarks were “clumsy,” Anderson maintained they were not racist. The fallout from this incident resulted in the party’s decision to suspend him, sparking debates within the Conservative ranks.
The poll findings showcased a clear divide among Tory members, with 31% supporting the party’s decision to suspend Anderson and 5% expressing uncertainty. This revelation adds a new layer to the ongoing controversy surrounding Anderson and highlights the internal tensions within the Conservative Party.
Notably, Anderson received a standing ovation at a recent Conservative fundraiser attended by prominent figures like former Prime Minister Liz Truss and fellow Red Wall MP Brendan Clarke-Smith. Truss’s greeting of “Who is this de-whipped Tory?” captured the attention of many, further emphasizing the intrigue surrounding Anderson’s political standing within the party.
The fundraising event, aimed at supporting Clarke-Smith’s campaign ahead of an anticipated general election, showcased a degree of solidarity among certain party members with Anderson. The former Labour councillor, who has not ruled out a potential move to Nigel Farage-linked Reform UK, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received following his suspension.
In an interview, Anderson reflected on the perceived disconnection between Westminster politics and the sentiments of the general public. He emphasized the need for politicians to be attuned to the views of their constituents, citing the positive reception he received at a local pub in Ashfield.
While acknowledging the diversity of political beliefs and opinions, Anderson stressed the importance of reading the room in one’s constituency. The wave of support he claimed to have received from both Ashfield and around the country implies a broader sentiment that resonates beyond the immediate party dynamics.
As the controversy surrounding Anderson unfolds, the unexpected poll results add a layer of complexity to the narrative, leaving the Conservative Party grappling with internal divisions and public perception. Whether these findings will lead to a reconsideration of Anderson’s suspension or further fuel tensions within the party remains to be seen. The impact of this episode on the broader political landscape and the upcoming general election is sure to be a topic of continued speculation and discussion.
