British MP Virginia Crosbie, from the Conservative Party, has revealed that she wears a puncture-resistant jacket to meetings with her constituents.
Crosbie said threats aimed at politicians were getting worse and called for social media companies to be fined for their inaction.
The Anglesey/Ynys Mon MP said many of her female colleagues were targeted, adding: “Even before breakfast, many have received one or two threats.”
Earlier last year Crosbie said she had reported about 30 threats, abusive emails and social media posts to police since she was elected in 2019.
Asked by Gloria De Piero on GB News if things had improved, she replied: “No. Absolutely not. If anything, it’s worse.
During the interview, due to be broadcast on Sunday, Crosbie said: “I’ve been through a difficult situation. I had an operation, I did a face-to-face operation where I wore a stabbing jacket, obviously after the killing of (Conservative MP) David Amess. And I also have security protection. I think it’s important that I have direct contact with my constituents. Unfortunately, that’s one of the things I have to do to make sure I can do the job I’ve been elected to do.”
British Parliament via PA Media
Crosbie said there needed to be more accountability for abusers, adding: “People can take to social media with impunity.”
Twitter accounts should be verified and social media companies should be fined for inaction, he added.
Despite the risks, Crosbie said he would still urge others to get involved in politics: “I would say you have to come forward and get involved. We need you. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done and the happiest. It’s an opportunity to make a difference.” big for men. We need more women.”
During the interview, Crosbie also discussed how he almost died in a car accident before he went to university, adding: “I had surgery about 10 years ago to reconstruct my face.”