The UK home secretary, James Cleverly, has come under fire for making a tasteless joke about spiking his wife’s drink with a date rape drug. The incident occurred during a reception at the Prime Minister’s residence, 10 Downing Street, and was revealed to the public shortly after Cleverly’s department announced a crackdown on drink spiking. This article will delve into the details of the incident, the response from the home secretary’s spokesperson, and the criticism he has faced from opposition politicians.
The Offensive Joke
According to the Sunday Mirror newspaper, Cleverly made the shocking remarks to female guests at the event. He allegedly stated that adding “a little bit of Rohypnol in her drink every night” was “not really illegal if it’s only a little bit.” Furthermore, he was quoted as saying that keeping his spouse “always mildly sedated” was the key to a lasting marriage, while preventing her from realizing there were better men out there. These remarks were not only tasteless and offensive but also highly inappropriate considering the serious nature of spiking drinks.
In response to the controversy, a spokesperson for James Cleverly issued an apology, stating that the remark was meant to be an ironic joke. The home secretary apologized for any offense caused and acknowledged the inappropriate nature of his comments. However, opposition politicians have been swift in criticizing this apology, dismissing it as an overused excuse and demanding a more significant cultural shift if Cleverly truly wants to address the issue of spiking.
It is worth noting that journalists were present at the reception, which is typically considered an off-the-record event. However, due to Cleverly’s high-ranking position in government and the sensitive subject matter discussed, the newspaper chose to forgo the usual polite etiquette. This decision highlights the seriousness of the remarks and the need for accountability, even in private conversations.
Criticism and Calls for Change
Opposition politicians, such as Alex Davies-Jones, the shadow minister for domestic violence and safeguarding, have strongly condemned Cleverly’s remarks. Davies-Jones dismissed the apology, emphasizing that the “it was a joke” excuse is tired and unconvincing. She called for a genuine cultural change that addresses the issue of spiking, violence against women, and girls. This incident serves as a reminder that inappropriate remarks, even in jest, contribute to a harmful culture and perpetuate the normalization of harmful actions.
James Cleverly’s offensive joke about spiking drinks has rightly garnered widespread criticism. While he has issued an apology, it is essential to recognize the need for more substantial action and a shift in culture to combat the issue of spiking effectively. This incident highlights the importance of holding public figures accountable for their words, regardless of the setting in which they were spoken. It serves as a stark reminder that no one should make light of such serious matters and that true change can only be achieved by promoting respect, empathy, and understanding.