The recently appointed Technology Secretary has criticized Elon Musk for allegedly encouraging violence and animosity in the UK. Liz Kendall, who assumed the position during the latest government reshuffle, expressed disapproval towards the Twitter owner for his remarks made at a Tommy Robinson rally, where he warned of impending violence.
Musk’s comments, suggesting that right-wingers must either engage in combat or face dire consequences, have sparked outrage among UK politicians, including Keir Starmer. Addressing a London gathering via video link, Musk proclaimed, “Violence is inevitable, whether you resist or not. The choice is yours to fight back or perish.”
In response, Ms. Kendall condemned the tech magnate’s statements, labeling them as attempts to sow division and provoke violence. She emphasized that promoting violence and hatred goes against the wishes of the British populace.
Meanwhile, London Mayor Sadiq Khan criticized Donald Trump and his associates for exacerbating far-right politics globally in recent years. In an article for The Guardian coinciding with Trump’s state visit, Khan highlighted the importance of unity in the face of fear-mongering tactics.
When asked about Khan’s stance, Ms. Kendall diverged, asserting that Elon Musk, not Sadiq Khan, is the primary instigator of division. She emphasized the significance of fostering a positive relationship with the US and President Trump for national security, economic opportunities, and job creation in the UK.
The UK-US tech agreement, announced during Trump’s visit, signifies a substantial investment opportunity for the UK, particularly in the burgeoning AI sector. Kendall praised the deal, foreseeing benefits such as job creation, innovative medical advancements, and enhanced technological capabilities for the country.