MP condemns BNP leaflets posted near Jo Cox consituency
The Commons heard that the leaflets accused the murdered Labour MP of taking "misguided action'' by "helping Muslims''
The far-right British National Party (BNP) has posted leaflets to people living near the town where Labour MP Jo Cox was killed, accusing her of taking "misguided action'' by helping Muslims'', the Commons has heard.
Labour's Paula Sherriff said the "horrendous'' leaflets, which had gone to her constituents in Dewsbury, said Jo was wrong to help people who may go on to join Islamic State.
The mum of two was shot and stabbed in Birstall, a week before the EU referendum.
Former BNP member Jack Buckby is to contest the by-election in the Batley and Spen constituency triggered by her death, despite commitments from the Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and Ukip not to field a candidate.
Home Office Minister Karen Bradley pledged to set up a meeting to discuss the "utterly unacceptable'' leaflets and to look at what "specific action'' can be taken against the BNP.
Paula Sherriff said: Many members will be aware that my constituency sits right next door to Batley and Spen.
Yesterday people in my constituency received a leaflet from the BNP saying Jo Cox took misguided action by helping Muslims in the country who may now go on to join Isis, alongside some other horrendous allegations.
Then I have received a significant number of communications from constituents, one - a seven year-old Muslim girl - was told on Friday, I've removed the expletives from this for the purpose of this House, 'it was the best day ever today, go home all of you' to her and her family.
And I am continuing to receive a number of similar incidents.
I like many others, I am so proud to be British, but I am also proud to be the daughter of a mother who is half Polish.
On Monday I asked the Prime Minister about establishing a cross-party commission to look at these race hate crimes and wonder if any progress has been made on that?
Because the time to act isn't tomorrow, next week or next month, it's now.''
Karen Bradley replied: I am shocked by what you say, I am sure the whole House is shocked.
That is utterly, utterly unacceptable.
I would like to meet you if you would allow and perhaps we can discuss a specific action being taken and make sure that any crimes such as those are reported and actions taken against them.''