Cops investigate Tory donor’s ‘racist’ comments targeting MP Diane Abbott

Allegations and Investigation

A Tory donor, Frank Hester, is being investigated by the police for alleged racist comments directed towards veteran MP Diane Abbott. Hester, who has donated £10 million to the party in the past year, faces scrutiny as officers determine if a crime has been committed. The businessman reportedly made comments suggesting hatred towards all black MPs and insinuating violence towards Abbott at a meeting in 2019.

Response and Pressure

Rishi Sunak faced criticism for his handling of the incident, eventually labeling the remarks as "racist" after Cabinet Minister Kemi Badenoch called them out. The Tories are under pressure to return the £10 million donation, with speculation that Hester may have offered an additional £5 million for their election war chest. Prime Minister Boris Johnson stated that "remorse should be accepted" in response to calls for the money to be returned.

Police Inquiry and Calls for Apology

West Yorkshire police are now investigating the matter to determine if a crime has been committed, following initial inquiries by the Metropolitan Police. A spokesperson for West Yorkshire police emphasized the importance of establishing the facts and urged anyone with information to come forward. Meanwhile, Diane Abbott highlighted that no Conservative member had apologized to her for the incident, stating that Hester's apology for rudeness did not address the racist and violent nature of his comments.