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Starmer goes head to head with Musk

7 January 20253 views0

A public dispute has emerged between Elon Musk, CEO of X (formerly Twitter), and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, centering on the handling of grooming gangs in the UK. Musk accused Starmer of being “complicit in the rape of Britain” during his tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), alleging that Starmer ignored numerous pleas from victims and their families.

Starmer, who served as DPP from 2008 to 2013, refuted Musk’s claims, labeling them as “lies” and “disinformation.” He emphasized his commitment to addressing child sexual exploitation during his tenure, citing reforms implemented to improve the prosecution of such cases. Starmer stated, “When the poison of the far right leads to serious threats… that in my book, means a line has been crossed.”

The controversy intensified as Musk’s comments were linked to far-right narratives. He also criticized Labour MP Jess Phillips, calling for her imprisonment over her stance on the issue, and demanded the release of Tommy Robinson, a far-right activist known for his anti-Islam views.

In response to the escalating situation, Starmer condemned those spreading false information, stating, “I enjoy the cut and thrust of politics… but that’s got to be based on facts and truth. Not on lies.”

The exchange has sparked a broader debate on the role of social media platforms in disseminating information and the responsibilities of public figures in addressing sensitive issues. Critics argue that Musk’s remarks have amplified harmful rhetoric, while supporters claim they highlight the need for greater accountability in handling grooming gang cases.

Unless otherwise linked, headlines are front pages for January 6 2025.