Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has criticized Reform MP Sarah Pochin over her controversial remarks on the representation of Black and Asian individuals in media. Pochin, an ally of Nigel Farage, faced backlash for expressing frustration at the visibility of Black and Asian people on screen. Mahmood addressed the issue at a gathering in Westminster, humorously alluding to Pochin’s viewing habits and suggesting she would try to limit the presence of “brown faces” on stage.
Following the incident, 35 MPs have called for an investigation into Pochin’s conduct by Parliament’s standards chief. Despite criticism from Farage, who described Pochin’s comments as “ugly,” he has resisted calls to expel her from the party.
Pochin’s remarks, made during a TalkTV phone-in, drew condemnation from Labour MP Dawn Butler, who called for an investigation into what she deemed racist statements. Butler emphasized the importance of upholding integrity and respect within Parliament.
In response to the controversy, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage expressed dissatisfaction with Pochin’s comments, acknowledging their inappropriateness but stopping short of labeling them as racist. He defended Pochin at a press conference, stating that while he disapproved of her choice of words, he did not believe her intent was malicious.
The situation has sparked debate over racial sensitivity and inclusivity in public discourse, prompting calls for maintaining high standards of conduct in political arenas.