Veteran Tory Justice Minister Mike Freer Resigns Amidst Death Threats Over Pro-Israel Stance
Justice Minister Mike Freer has announced his decision to step down from frontline politics due to a sustained campaign of death threats and intimidation stemming from his pro-Israel views. The 63-year-old minister, who narrowly escaped a confrontation with terrorist killer Ali Harbi Ali, cites a decade-long history of intimidation as the reason for his departure.
The final straw for Freer was an ‘arson’ attack on his constituency office in December, following which he received an email stating he deserved to be set alight. This incident, coupled with the ongoing threats, led to tense conversations with his family over Christmas, ultimately influencing his decision to leave politics.
Freer expressed the toll this situation has taken on his family, with his husband Angelo becoming increasingly jittery after learning that Ali Harbi Ali had visited the constituency office with the intention of killing him. On police advice, Freer has been wearing a stab vest during scheduled public events in his constituency.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, Freer emphasized that while abuse is unfortunately part of modern public life for MPs, the fear for one’s survival should not be a constant concern. His decision raises questions about the security of MPs in the face of increasing threats and may reignite discussions about the toxic impact of social media on public figures.
Freer’s experience echoes the broader issue of security for MPs, with incidents like the murders of Sir David Amess and Jo Cox, as well as the stabbing of Stephen Timms. Freer believes that his outspoken views on Israel and strong support for the Jewish community have made him a target for anti-Semitic threats.
The veteran minister also criticized the impact of social media on public life, particularly platforms like Twitter and Facebook. He quit Twitter six years ago following an online spat with George Galloway, highlighting the negative consequences of such platforms.
Freer attributes the rise in anti-Semitism in his constituency to the October 7 attacks on Israel by the terror group Hamas. Pro-Palestine demonstrations in central London further contribute to the atmosphere of intimidation, preventing many constituents from entering the area on Saturdays.
While Freer is one of several MPs to announce their departure from parliament, polls suggest he would retain his seat if he chose to run again. His resignation, driven by personal circumstances, is not a reflection on the Prime Minister or the government. Freer maintains his belief that the Prime Minister can lead the party to victory.
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