Kemi Badenoch, a senior UK politician, has sparked widespread criticism after awarding a lifetime peerage to Toby Young, a figure infamous for controversial statements and actions. Young, known for his leadership of the ‘Free Speech Union,’ has a troubling public record involving sexist, homophobic remarks and spreading Covid misinformation.
Back in 2018, Young was forced to resign as an adviser to Theresa May’s government when past comments about women and gay people came to light. Among his many disparaging remarks, he once described a gay celebrity as “queer as a coot” and visited a bar that he said contained “hardcore dykes.” His now-deleted tweets made similarly inappropriate comments about the appearances of prominent women in politics and media.
Young also defended his close friend Boris Johnson in a scandal alleging Johnson had sexually assaulted a colleague. Young claimed women at The Spectator, where Boris had been an editor, would complain if Johnson “didn’t put his hand on their knee.”
Adding further controversy, Young ran The Daily Skeptic, a blog that shared misleading claims about Covid-19 during the pandemic. These claims were so problematic that the press regulator IPSO officially criticized him in 2021 for spreading “significantly misleading” information.
Many have questioned Badenoch’s judgment in granting Young such a powerful role, especially given his controversial history. Critics highlight how decisions like these can undermine trust and credibility in leadership, raising concerns about the accountability of those in positions of influence. This is particularly important in a time when accurate information and responsible decision-making are crucial for public health.
However, Badenoch has defended her decision, stating that Young’s past controversies should not disqualify him from a peerage. She also emphasized his track record of advocating for free speech and his contributions to education policy.
While it is important to value diverse perspectives and opinions, leaders must prioritize the well-being and safety of their constituents above all else. In this case, the backlash against Badenoch’s decision serves as a reminder of the importance of carefully considering the character and actions of those given positions of power.