In the wake of Liz Truss’s controversial behavior at a right-wing US conference, Tory Minister Chris Philp has defended his stance against her suspension from the Conservative party. Despite facing criticism for her failure to intervene when right-wing activist Tommy Robinson was hailed as a “hero,” Philp emphasized that he sees no reason for Truss to face disciplinary action.
During an appearance on Sky News, Philp lauded Chancellor Rishi Sunak for swiftly withdrawing the Conservative whip from Lee Anderson, who made inflammatory remarks about Sadiq Khan being influenced by Islamists. However, when pressed on whether the same punishment should apply to Liz Truss, Philp firmly stated, “No.”
Explaining his stance, Philp asserted that he believes Truss has not committed any wrongdoing. He defended her inaction during the controversial remarks made by former Trump strategist Steve Bannon, arguing that it would be unfair to criticize her for a sin of omission without understanding the full context of the situation.
Truss, who served as Prime Minister for a brief 49 days before resigning amid economic turmoil sparked by her mini-budget, has faced scrutiny for her staunch defense of tax cuts and her alignment with right-wing figures. Her recent participation in the CPAC conference alongside Donald Trump and Nigel Farage, as well as her column in Fox News warning about the “doom” facing the West unless conservatives prevail, have further fueled controversy.
In response to Truss’s actions, Labour has called on Chancellor Sunak to consider stripping her of the party whip. Labour Chair Anneliese Dodds criticized Truss for “propagating conspiracy theories” and associating with individuals who have praised the far right. Dodds expressed concern over the lack of disciplinary action taken against Truss, describing her behavior as “deeply disturbing.”
Despite mounting pressure, Truss remains defiant in her defense of conservative principles and her condemnation of what she perceives as the encroachment of leftist ideologies in societal institutions. As the debate surrounding her actions continues, the Conservative party faces scrutiny over its handling of disciplinary matters and its tolerance for controversial rhetoric within its ranks.