Tory MP condemns racist incidents following EU vote

Kit Malthouse blasts "disgusting" incidents

The MP for North West Hampshire has condemned “disgusting racist incidents” following last week’s EU referendum.

Kit Malthouse, who campaigned for a leave vote, was speaking after the nation elected to leave the European Union in an historic referendum on June 23.

While market uncertainty and political upheaval continue there have been reports of racist incidents targeting EU migrants across the country in the days that followed.

The Tory MP said: “Like most people I have been profoundly disturbed by the disgusting racist incidents that have taken place over the weekend.

“While immigration has undoubtedly been an issue in this campaign, it is a difficult and thorny one, and talk of ‘curbs’ or ‘controls’ will always give succour to racists and xenophobes.

“But people who seek a reasonable debate need to be explicit and unequivocal in their condemnation of those attacks, and that includes the leadership of both sides of the referendum.

“It is perfectly possible to engage with this question and be positive about immigration at the same time.

“Immigrants are welcome in the UK, both from within and outside the EU, and we should all value their contribution culturally and economically.”

What do you think following the referendum result – are you elated or devastated? Did you vote one way and wish you hadn’t? Have you been victim to racist incidents as a result? Let us know at william.walker@newburynews.co.uk and chris.ord@newburynews.co.uk