David Cameron is visiting a “secret venue” to promote a new government drive to teach migrant women English. One of his reasons for this policy is to free women from some “menfolk” in Muslim communities who foster isolation and segregation by preventing women in their families from learning English.
The blast of the dog-whistle/foghorn aside, Cameron has slightly undermined his message at this press event in question. Sky News’ Gerard Tubb has pointed out the irony of being restricted from asking the attending Muslim women questions:
“Can we talk to these women?” PM’s office: “No, not before the PM arrives” “Afterwards?” “There won’t be any time” pic.twitter.com/lZkx3Wlr37
— Gerard Tubb (@TubbSky) January 18, 2016
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This gets worse. The PM will not talk to us here at all. “He might do a clip if we go to a mosque later”
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— Gerard Tubb (@TubbSky) January 18, 2016
This is outrageous, we are journalists & we’re not here to do your propaganda I’m sorry you’re angry I’m not, I’m furious
— Gerard Tubb (@TubbSky) January 18, 2016
I’m being held in a room. PM next door now with women. We will be given 60″ in the room and not allowed to ask Qs https://t.co/mmIljG1VoH
— Gerard Tubb (@TubbSky) January 18, 2016
Guido hears No 10’s defence that this was simply a timetabling issue, and that the women would be able to speak to journalists after the event.
Sounds like they realised the irony of powerful men restricting women’s voices…