Cllr Sarah Murray speaks out against abuse and intimidation in politics

Worcester Liberal Democrat councillor Sarah Murray has spoken out about the growing abuse and intimidation faced by politicians after being featured in today's Worcester News following the tragic murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe.

As the Worcester Liberal Democrats' spokesperson on crime, Cllr Murray was asked to comment on the wider impact that threats and violence have on those who choose to serve their communities.

Reflecting on the tragedy, Cllr Murray said:

"The murder of Ann Widdecombe is a stark reminder that violence and intimidation have no place in our democracy. While such tragedies are thankfully rare, many councillors and politicians experience abuse, threats and harassment simply for serving their communities.

 

"I know councillors who have genuinely feared for their safety. Here in Worcester, Cllr Richard Udall received death threats, and many councillors have faced intimidation online. During the last election campaign, I was also subjected to harassment both online and in the street.

 

"Democracy depends on people from all walks of life being willing to stand for election and speak up for their communities. If people are frightened to put themselves forward or are driven out of public life by abuse and intimidation, then democracy is diminished. We must continue to protect the right to robust political debate while making it absolutely clear that threats, harassment and violence are never acceptable."

Cllr Murray has long campaigned for safer communities and stronger neighbourhood policing in Worcester. While political debate will always involve disagreement, she believes there can never be any justification for threats, intimidation or violence against those who serve in public life.

The Liberal Democrats believe that people from every background should feel able to stand for election, represent their communities and take part in public life without fear. Healthy democracy depends on robust debate, but it also depends on ensuring that abuse and intimidation are never allowed to silence those who choose to serve.

Cllr Murray's comments were featured in today's Worcester News as part of its coverage of the national debate surrounding the safety of elected representatives.