Starmer Accuses Sunak of Ignoring Anderson's 'Racist' Remarks on Khan

Following controversial remarks made by Lee Anderson about London Mayor Sadiq Khan, the Ashfield MP has been suspended from the Conservative Party. Anderson suggested that Khan was under the influence of "Islamists," prompting a swift reaction from political figures across the spectrum. Despite the backlash, Anderson has stood by his comments, asserting that an apology on his part would signify weakness and maintaining his stance on what he perceives as double standards in policing marches in London.

The Labour Party has strongly criticized Anderson's statements, with leader Sir Keir Starmer accusing Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of lacking the fortitude to adequately condemn the remarks. Labour Party chair Anneliese Dodds has described Anderson's comments as "unambiguously racist, Islamophobic, divisive and damaging," and has previously urged the Conservative Party to address Islamophobia within its ranks.

On the Conservative side, Sunak has labeled the comments as "wrong" and has distanced himself from them without explicitly calling them Islamophobic. Senior figures within the party, including former Prime Minister David Cameron and former Home Secretary Theresa May, have condemned Anderson's statements. The Conservative Muslim Forum has also expressed concern and is seeking discussions with government representatives. Although Sunak and Cabinet minister Mark Harper have left open the possibility of Anderson's return to the party, this would be contingent upon a "genuine apology" from the Ashfield MP, something he has so far refused to provide.