Leading lawyers representing sexual abuse survivors have condemned Labour’s Savile rhetoric. They warn that ministers’ comparisons between Nigel Farage and the disgraced TV presenter risk retraumatizing victims. Furthermore, they stress that these comparisons serve no constructive political purpose.
The backlash follows multiple Labour cabinet members invoking Jimmy Savile’s name to criticize Farage’s opposition to the Online Safety Act. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle sparked outrage last week. He claimed Farage would be “on the side” of predators like Savile. Meanwhile, Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips referenced “modern-day Saviles” in the context of online abuse cases.
Alan Collins, a prominent abuse claims lawyer at Hugh James solicitors, told The Guardian the remarks demonstrated a “lack of understanding” of how Savile’s name affects survivors. “Victims often mention Savile in therapy sessions even if he wasn’t their abuser the name alone triggers distress,” Collins said. “There’s nothing constructive in throwing his toxic legacy around for political point-scoring.”
Richard Scorer of Slater and Gordon, who represented Savile’s victims, called it “completely wrong to weaponize survivors’ suffering.” He urged politicians to focus instead on implementing child protection reforms recommended by the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse.
Despite the criticism, Labour ministers defended their language. Kyle insisted Farage’s pledge to repeal online safety laws aligned him with “extreme pornographers and peddlers of hate.” Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander argued the Reform UK leader was “effectively siding” with abusers by opposing the legislation.
Reform chair Zia Yusuf branded Kyle’s initial comparison “one of the most disgusting things a politician has ever said.” The row highlights Labour’s aggressive approach to framing Farage as a threat to child safety. This tactic risks backfiring as abuse advocates warn against exploiting trauma. Collins noted the remarks appeared designed to “deliberately bait” Farage given Savile’s uniquely toxic symbolism.
With survivors’ groups demanding an end to Labour’s Savile rhetoric, the party faces mounting pressure to recalibrate its attacks. They must also address unfinished reforms to protect vulnerable children. As Scorer emphasized: “Victims want action, not political games.”
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