Despite somewhat dodging the question, James Cleverly still managed to indicate that Susan Hall has the backing of most senior Tories. Her campaign to replace Sadiq Khan as London Mayor hit a major obstacle this week, after her contentious online history was exposed.
Who is Susan Hall, and what posts has she liked?
Hall has openly supported and liked Tweets praising the notorious politician Enoch Powell, known for his not-so-subtle racism and vitriolic opposition to immigration – and the Tory candidate has been accused of showing her ‘true colours’.
She has also previously endorsed posts that refer to London as ‘Londonistan’, and has even shared quotes and comments made by Katie Hopkins. Her taste for extreme views has now become public knowledge, but it seems she will retain the support of her well-placed colleagues.
James Cleverly gives his support to ‘Enoch Powell-endorsing’ candidate
In an interview with Laura Kuenssberg on Sunday, Cleverly spoke highly of Susan Hall’s character, without actually answering a question about whether her views would be welcome in a ‘modern-day Conservative Party’.
“I haven’t seen those specific posts. I know Susan and have worked with her for a long time. She is just like most of us in the Conservative Party. She is comfortable working with people of all ethnicities, and is passionate about making London safe and prosperous.” | James Cleverly
Who will be the next Mayor of London
His non-direct response did reveal, at least, that she retains the support of the top brass within her party. With Jeremy Corbyn also evaluating a run for the mayoral position, splitting the vote with Labour could gift control of the capital to the Tories.
Cleverly went on to praise Hall for ‘holding Sadiq Khan to account’, and said she was able to work with ‘people of all ethnicities’.
One does wonder what Enoch Powell would make of that last point, though.
- You can watch James Cleverly’s exchange with Laura Kuenssberg here: