After making an “ironic joke” about poisoning his wife’s drinks with a date-rape medication, British Home Secretary James Cleverly apologized.
Photo from Google
UK Home Secretary Faces Backlash Over Controversial Remarks on Spiking Incident
On December 18, UK officials, media, and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attended a private reception where the alleged insult was made. According to Cleverly, his ideal wife is “someone who is always mildly sedated so she can never realize there are better men out there.” He also suggested putting a little Rohypnol in his wife’s drink is “not really illegal if it’s only a little bit.”
The event is notable because the British government is advocating new regulations to address chemicals added to drinks to exploit people. Young ladies are typically targeted for such crimes. Cleverly, a Conservative, became Home Secretary last month after becoming an MP in 2015. He married in 2000 and has two boys.
“In what was always understood as a private conversation, James, the home secretary tackling spiking, made what was clearly meant to be an ironic joke – for which he apologizes,” Cleverly’s spokesperson told the BBC.
READ ALSO: Virginia Police Identify Body as Missing 5-Year-Old Who Disappeared Decades Ago
UK Home Secretary’s Controversial Comments on Spiking Raise Concerns
Given his role as Home Secretary, Cleverly’s comments on spiking have raised eyebrows. The apology follows government efforts to reduce drug and alcohol-related crimes against persons. Such occurrences have garnered attention because they can victimize and exploit vulnerable people, especially in social contexts.
Cleverly’s words may be problematic due to the seriousness of the matter and the potential influence on the public view of the government’s commitment to fighting such actions. The event highlights the difficult balance officials must maintain in public and private speech, especially when discussing public safety and well-being.
As the matter unfolds, it is unclear how the public will react to Cleverly’s words or whether political reactions will follow.
