Tory Mayor claims stranger threatened to 'cut him up with a chainsaw' in horrifying abuse ordeal

Abuse and Threats

A Tory Mayor has spoken out about the terrifying abuse he and his family have endured, with claims of threats involving a chainsaw. Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen revealed the distressing incidents, including his wife being 'absolutely petrified' to answer the door, while stating that the police have not taken action.

Call for Firm Action

Mr. Houchen emphasized the need for a stronger response from the police towards the abuse faced by politicians, pointing out that social media users are fueling the unacceptable behavior by inciting one another. He stressed the importance of enforcement to maintain a civil democratic discourse.

Online Harassment

Liberal Democrat candidate Natalie Younes and Labour MP Lewis Atkinson also shared their experiences of harassment and threats. Younes highlighted the ease with which individuals can launch attacks online, while Atkinson revealed that new MPs are provided with safety advice and panic alarms upon starting their roles.

Legacy of Tragedy

The discussion on political safety comes in the wake of the tragic murder of Labour MP Jo Cox in 2016. Her sister, Kim Leadbeater, now a Labour MP herself, warns that the toxic political environment persists, putting elected representatives at risk.

Concerns and Consequences

The alarming trend of threats and abuse targeting politicians has led to some MPs stepping down from their positions, as highlighted in a report by the Jo Cox Foundation. Recent incidents, including the fatal stabbing of MP David Amess in 2021, underscore the ongoing challenges faced by those in public office.