Home   Ashford   News   Article

Ashford MP Damian Green faces questions from the Information Commissioner's Office over Brexit tweet

An MP will be asked to explain why he tweeted a list of people's names and their stance on Brexit.

Damian Green, who has been Ashford MP since 1997, posted the information on his Twitter feed this morning. The tweet has since been deleted.

Ashford MP Damian Green (5723948)
Ashford MP Damian Green (5723948)

It said: "To anyone who says 'Do what your constituents ask' here is an unedited page of emails from last night. Six demanding remain, five a complete break."

The tweet was accompanied by a picture of an inbox with the names, together with headings next to them such as "Clean break", "Remain in the EU" and "Stop Brexit".

Previews of the first lines of each email were similar, suggesting they were the result of some sort of mailshot.

The identical information was posted on Mr Green's Facebook page but this time with the names blacked out.

Damian Green's Facebook page showing constituents' views on Brexit (5724085)
Damian Green's Facebook page showing constituents' views on Brexit (5724085)

The potential gaff came just hours after it was announced the former Minister for the Cabinet Office had been reselected by Ashford Conservatives as their candidate for the next general election.

Twitter users voiced their disapproval. Adrian Hilton tweeted: "I don't know about you, but if I wrote to my MP expressing a political view on a matter, I wouldn't expect him to tweet it to the world."

And Dave Roberts posted: "Politicians need to be very mindful that they have responsibilities in respect of data protection."

Damian Green MP will be asked for an explanation about a tweet by the ICO
Damian Green MP will be asked for an explanation about a tweet by the ICO

According to the BBC, the Information Commissioner's Office, which upholds people's information rights, will ask Mr Green for an explanation.

Mr Green, a supporter of Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal, said in a statement: "I deleted the Tweet as soon as possible and have apologised to those concerned individually.

"I was illustrating the point that MPs have to make their own decision on this, as divisions are so entrenched."

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More