Kemi Badenoch disavowed Robert Jenrick’s tweet calling Keir Starmer a “Quisling” amid backlash over the Chagos Islands deal.
Jenrick faced criticism for the phrase. “Quisling” means someone aiding an enemy occupier, and its use arose during a disagreement over the Chagos Islands.
Badenoch’s spokesman said she wasn’t responsible for Jenrick’s tweet. The spokesman added that Jenrick is a valued member, and Badenoch doesn’t police his tweets.
Vidkun Quisling was a Norwegian politician who helped the Nazis during WW2. He led Norway’s puppet government at that time.
Brendan Cox also condemned Jenrick’s words. As the husband of murdered MP Jo Cox, he said using such language is dangerous for MPs who face violence, threats, and the risk of murder.
The problem involves giving the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Reports say the UK might pay £18 billion, a significant increase from the original deal of £9 billion.
The original deal leased Diego Garcia for 99 years. Mauritian PM called that deal “not good enough,” and the new deal lacks an automatic extension.
Priti Patel also criticized the Chagos Islands deal. She called it a betrayal of British people and territory and wants a review of the situation.
Patel said they should find other ways to proceed. She opposes handing over territory and is against spending £9 to £18 billion, citing a financial crisis.
Starmer defended the deal about the Chagos Islands. He said the base is important for security, and legal certainty for the base faced doubts.
Without legal certainty, the base cannot operate well. He stated this harms national security and benefits adversaries.
