A candidate running for mayor under the Reform UK party has been removed from the party following controversial remarks equating Jewish individuals to “Islamists on horseback.”
Rear Admiral Chris Parry, the candidate endorsed by Nigel Farage’s party in Hampshire and Solent, faced suspension after making shocking comments about a Jewish community organization shortly after an anti-semitic arson incident in their vicinity.
The incident involved the destruction of four Jewish community ambulances operated by the charity Hatzola in Golders Green, North London on Monday. Authorities are currently investigating the attack as a potential anti-semitic hate crime.
Mr. Parry criticized the Jewish neighborhood watch group Shomrim, which collaborates with Hatzola, on social media, labeling them as “cosplayers” lacking legal authority. His remarks were in response to a post shared by Catherine Blaiklock, a co-founder of the Brexit party, questioning the establishment of Christian-led police forces patrolling specific neighborhoods.
Upon facing backlash for his comments, Mr. Parry defended his stance, stating that Shomrim is merely a community organization without legal recognition, drawing a parallel to “Islamists on horseback.”
A spokesperson for Reform UK confirmed that Chris Parry has been suspended pending further investigation, with his candidacy also put on hold. This action follows previous controversies involving Mr. Parry, including racially insensitive remarks directed at Deputy PM Mr. Lammy and questioning the loyalty of prominent figures from minority ethnic backgrounds.
In response to the suspension, the Labour Party criticized Nigel Farage for not taking action against Mr. Parry sooner, citing his track record of making racist comments. The Liberal Democrats also condemned Mr. Parry’s recent remarks, emphasizing the need for stringent vetting processes for political candidates.
Moving forward, there are calls for increased accountability within Reform UK to address racially offensive comments made by party members, with demands for swift and decisive action in such instances.
