Home Secretary James Cleverly apologises for 'ironic joke' about spiking wife's drink
The Home Secretary, James Cleverly, has expressed regret for making an insensitive remark about adding substances to his spouse's beverage during a gathering held at 10 Downing Street. He stated that it was meant to be humorous, but he now understands that it was inappropriate and insensitive.
According to reports, he allegedly stated that the perfect partner should be "constantly in a state of slight sedation to ensure they never become aware of the existence of superior male counterparts."
Reported by the Sunday Mirror, he additionally referenced Rohypnol, which is commonly known as a "date rape" substance.
Reputable members of the Labour party have expressed their strong disapproval of the remarks, labeling them as "shocking".
Yvette Cooper, who is the shadow home secretary, expressed her concern about the heinous act of spiking. It is when someone puts drugs or alcohol in another person's drink or body without their permission. According to her, this type of crime is not only disturbing but also serious, as it is causing irreparable harm to the lives of young women.
"It's absolutely inconceivable that the individual responsible for home affairs could make such offensive remarks, especially considering the fact that the government had just unveiled a new initiative to combat the issue of spiked drinks," she remarked.
Women's Aid, a charitable organization, expressed its expectation that politicians would take measures to stop violence towards women and girls, as well as the sexism that supports it.
On X, it was stated that it is crucial for survivors of spiking to witness ministers acknowledging the severity of the issue and not trivializing the fact that numerous women experience it.
A representative for the individual in charge of domestic affairs shared that during a conversation perceived to be confidential, James, who is responsible for addressing the issue of sudden increases, made a comment that was intended to be a jest. This statement, which was not taken seriously, is something he regrets and has sought to make amends for.
According to a person who spoke to the BBC, he couldn't precisely remember the words he used since it was a private conversation where no public record was maintained. However, he acknowledged that making any joke like that was not acceptable, which is the reason why he is saying sorry.
On the 18th of December, a situation occurred. During this time, politicians who report on political events were asked to attend an evening gathering at the address known as 10 Downing Street, alongside other political assistants, government officials, and the Prime Minister himself, named Rishi Sunak.
Mr. Cleverly announced several new government measures to combat the rise in crime on the same day. He called it a "perverse crime."
As per the Sunday Mirror newspaper, Mr. Cleverly apparently shared with some female guests that adding "a small dose of Rohypnol in someone's drink every night" wouldn't be considered illegal.
The blog post also mentions that he chuckled at the notion that the key to a long-lasting marriage was guaranteeing that your significant other is "perpetually tranquilized so she remains oblivious to the existence of superior partners."
Normally, discussions that occur at get-togethers held in Downing Street are meant to be kept private and not shared publicly. However, according to the Sunday Mirror, they have chosen to go against this customary privacy protocol due to the fact that Mr. Cleverly holds a significant position and the nature of what he said.
Mr. Cleverly and his life partner crossed paths while studying at the university. They both are parents to two kids.
The Shadow Minister for Domestic Violence and Safeguarding of the Labour Party, Alex Davies-Jones, stated that if the UK's Home Secretary is genuinely committed to addressing the increasing incidences of violence against women and girls, then it is necessary to bring about an overall cultural transformation.
The inappropriate joking or teasing should come to an end, and those in charge must address it.
