'I have seen a concerning rise in threats, particularly from the far-right' says Blackpool South MP Chris Webb
“A serious and growing threat to the health of our democracy.”
Chris Webb, MP for Blackpool South, has issued a statement after a man was sentenced after admitting a public order offence.
Tom O'Keefe, 42, of Cross Street in Blackpool, admitted a public order offence after a disturbance at a jobs fair set up by Chris Webb MP and was handed a 12-month restraining order, fined £120 and ordered to pay costs when he appeared at Lancaster Magistrates' Court.
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Chris Webb MP, who had previously said how he was ‘incredibly grateful’ to Lancashire Police and his parliamentary security team for their ‘swift action’ in dealing with the incident in February, has now issued a statement on the matter.
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‘A serious and growing threat to the health of our democracy’
“Many of you will have seen the news of a man who has been sentenced after admitting a public order offence following a disturbance at my jobs fair in February,” said Chris Webb MP. “I welcome the guilty plea and sentencing in this case.
“The individual’s actions were not only unacceptable, they were a direct attack on a positive, community-focused event and on the people who attended it in good faith. I want to place on record my sincere thanks to the officers of Lancashire Constabulary in Blackpool for their swift, professional and resolute response.
“Their actions ensured this matter was dealt with decisively and send a clear signal that intimidation and threats will not be tolerated. However, this case is not an isolated incident. Like many colleagues across Parliament, I have seen a deeply concerning rise in threats and abuse, particularly from far-right individuals and groups.
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“This escalation is not simply about the safety of MPs – it represents a serious and growing threat to the health of our democracy. When elected representatives are targeted, public events are disrupted and fear is weaponised, the very foundations of our democratic system are put at risk.
“No one should feel unsafe for participating in democracy. Attempts to intimidate or silence those in public service are an attack on the rights and freedoms that underpin our political system. We must do more to ensure the safety and security of MPs and their families, or we risk further tragedies.
“This is a challenge we must confront directly and without compromise. Our democracy depends on people being able to engage openly, safely and without fear – and that is something we will always stand up for and defend.”