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Sunday 22/02/2026

UK MPs Face Rising Threats Amid Heated Debates on Grooming Gangs and Immigration

UK MP in political setting with digital storm clouds
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Labour MP Anna Dixon received death threats following a video by Conservative MP Robbie Moore, which she claims spread misinformation about her stance on a grooming gangs inquiry.
  • The video accused Dixon of opposing a national inquiry into grooming gangs, citing her vote against a related amendment, which she argues was misrepresented.
  • MPs across the UK report a rise in online abuse, with some saying the hostility is worse than during the Brexit debates, particularly around immigration and asylum seeker issues.
  • Many MPs, especially women, face misogynistic and violent threats, with some attributing the increase to the emboldenment of far-right rhetoric.
  • Police investigations are underway regarding the threats, and MPs emphasize the need for respectful discourse despite political disagreements.

In a troubling escalation of hostility towards politicians, Labour MP Anna Dixon has reported receiving death threats following a controversial video posted by Conservative MP Robbie Moore. The video, which Dixon claims spreads misinformation, has sparked a broader conversation about the rising tide of online abuse faced by UK MPs.

Grooming Gangs Inquiry Sparks Controversy

The controversy began when Moore accused Dixon of misleading the public regarding her stance on a national inquiry into grooming gangs. Moore's video suggested that Dixon opposed such an inquiry, citing her vote against a Conservative amendment to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill. Dixon, however, clarified that her vote was based on procedural concerns, arguing that the amendment would have jeopardized the bill's progress. She expressed shock at Moore's claims, emphasizing her support for a local inquiry if deemed necessary.

Rising Online Abuse and Misogyny

The incident with Dixon is part of a broader pattern of increasing online abuse targeting MPs, particularly women. Many MPs report that the current climate of hostility is more severe than during the Brexit debates. Tonia Antoniazzi, Labour MP for Gower, described the situation as "frighteningly polarised," with MPs receiving abuse from all sides. The Green Party's Carla Denyer highlighted the misogynistic and homophobic nature of the threats she receives, attributing the rise to the emboldenment of far-right rhetoric.

Political Polarization and Safety Concerns

The rise in threats has prompted police investigations, with MPs calling for a more respectful political discourse. Dixon criticized Moore's actions as irresponsible, especially given the heightened security threats faced by politicians following the tragic murders of two MPs in recent years. Moore, while condemning threats of violence, defended his video as raising legitimate concerns about Dixon's public position.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The increasing hostility towards MPs, particularly around sensitive issues like grooming gangs and immigration, could have significant implications for political discourse in the UK. If left unchecked, this trend may deter individuals from entering politics, particularly women and minorities who are disproportionately targeted. Experts suggest that political leaders must work to de-escalate tensions and promote respectful dialogue to ensure the safety and integrity of democratic processes. As investigations into the threats continue, there may be calls for stronger measures to protect MPs and hold those responsible for online abuse accountable.

Images from the Web

Additional article image
Image Source: House of Commons/Roger Harris
Additional article image
Image Source: House of Commons