Charity boss gives Jenrick ‘olive department’ over xenophobia row
Charity boss and theologian Krish Kandiah has provided what he referred to as an “olive department” to Robert Jenrick after accusing the shadow justice secretary of “xenophobia” on BBC Radio 4 At this time programme’s Thought for the Day slot on Wednesday.
Objecting to the declare, Jenrick stated listeners had been instructed that “in case you’re involved about the specter of unlawful migrants to your youngsters, you are racist”.
The BBC later apologised and edited out the remark from the section on the BBC Sounds catch-up service.
On Friday, in a message on social media to Jenrick, Kandiah stated he would “like to discover a manner we might work collectively to de-escalate the concern and anger many are feeling in our nation”.
“I imagine we have to give attention to the true challenges which can be making folks anxious – housing, jobs and the price of residing – somewhat than ramping up anti-immigrant sentiment.
“I labored with you while you [Jenrick] have been housing minister and the UK welcomed over 200,000 folks from Hong Kong. I used to be grateful to your help and compassion throughout that point.”
Jenrick’s crew has been contacted for a response.
Kandiah runs the refugee charity Sanctuary Basis which has beforehand helped refugees from Ukraine and Afghanistan.
Throughout his Thought for the Day section, Kandiah referenced an article within the Mail on Sunday through which Jenrick had written: “I actually don’t desire my kids to share a neighbourhood with males from backward international locations who broke into Britain illegally, and about whom we all know subsequent to nothing.”
Kandiah stated: “These phrases echo a concern many have absorbed – concern of the stranger. The technical title for that is xenophobia. All phobias are, by definition, irrational. However, they’ve a huge effect.
“It’s comprehensible that many individuals are scared by the unknown, particularly if they have been instructed illegality and unfairness are a part of the story.
“Nevertheless, over the previous yr, xenophobia has fuelled offended protests exterior lodges housing asylum seekers, deepening divisions in our communities.”
In response, Jenrick, who has three daughters aged 10, 12 and 14, posted: “On BBC Radio 4 this morning listeners have been instructed that in case you’re involved about the specter of unlawful migrants to your youngsters, you are racist. Incorrect. You are a good guardian.”
A BBC spokesperson stated: “Whereas its reflection on concern in society from a religion perspective is broadly consistent with expectations of Thought for the Day, among the language it used went past that and we apologise for its inclusion.”
It’s understood the BBC was apologising for the inclusion of an opinion in a spot the place it was inappropriate, not passing judgement on the rights or wrongs of the opinion.
