I'm also fed up with the "I don't do politics" Brigade. That is no excuse for turning a blind eye to racism. Racism isn't a political choice, so much as an anti-human choice. You have to call it out. And to describe oneself as "not into politics" is standing by whilst watching our country head down a fascist route.
A bit of a falling out between Deeney and Troost Ekong... https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=57782
Worrying... I attended the Nathan Gill sentencing hearing at the Old Bailey. Why? It was clear that having pleaded guilty to 8 charges of bribery he was going to be given a long prison sentence. I wanted to hear the evidence leading up to his arrest to get some idea of the extent of his treachery, to understand more about the extent of Russian interference in UK politics, undermining democratic processes and propagating pro -Putin propaganda. It was worth it. The evidence presented raises more questions than it answers and confirms my belief that there is a need for a full inquiry into Russian subversion of politics in the UK and in Europe; Gill is the tip of the iceberg. Since the Salisbury murders, the Litvinenko murder, and sabotage attacks on premises in the UK, it is clear that there is a hybrid war underway which builds on years of money-laundering in London and broader financial interventions to undermine or influence our democracy, such as donations to politicians and business links with Putin’s Russia. Throughout the hearing Gill sat stoney faced, barely moving. Behind him was a large bag of what was probably clothing as he prepared for the inevitable prison term. There was no indication from him or his lawyers that he was sorry for the impact his treachery has had on Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. The evidence was clear that by 2018 his links with Russia were well established. It was clear from the evidence that amongst the tasks he was being paid for was the building of a group of supporters amongst his group of MEPs and amongst those from other countries. Motions in the European parliament, questions, speeches, TV interviews, attending international conferences with others, social media. All these methods built a narrative of influence to give credibility to Russian propaganda. There are many questions about those who succumbed to his efforts. There are questions about what they knew. He pleaded not guilty to a charge of conspiracy, which remains on the file. Why was this not proceeded with? What are the details? Conspiracy with whom? Who introduced Gill to Voloshyn and Putin’s friend Medvechuk? How extensive was the network? What did those who he was close to and who advised him know? What about all those Farage paid interviews on Russia today? What business links are there? So many questions which won’t have come to light because this charge is left on the file. I am glad that the police are still investigating others who may be involved. The report Boris Johnson commissioned after Salisbury has not been published. The select committee Russia report is redacted and damningly confirms the UK Government has not seen, nor sought, any evidence of interference in UK affairs. There really is a need for an inquiry. Gills treachery is likely to be the tip of the iceberg. The undermining of trust in politics is one thing . Treasonous behaviour is a matter of national security.
