Titled: James Cleverly's Apology Over Questionable Joke About Rohypnol
Home Secretary James Cleverly, in a recent private gathering, found himself in an awkward spot after making a jest about Rohypnol, a powerful sedative drug. In an article published by the Sunday Mirror, the British official made light of the substance, suggesting it was acceptable to have "a little bit" of it in one's drink nightly.
Laughing along, Cleverly also shared an anecdote about marriage, stating that securing a long-lasting bond involved keeping one's partner "slightly sedated" to overlook potential better suitors.
Ironic Remark or Not?
A spokesperson for Cleverly promptly defended the Home Secretary's stance, claiming it was an "ironic joke" made in a private setting, understood as such by all involved.
Despite the alleged context, the remarks raised eyebrows among women's rights organizations, with the Fawcett Society voicing strong disapproval. The organization found the idea of drugging women as a laughing matter repulsive, especially given Cleverly's ministerial commitment to women's safety.
Calls for Resignation
In the wake of widespread criticism, the Fawcett Society publicly called for Cleverly's resignation due to his unacceptable jokes towards women's safety. Additionally, Women's Aid urged the Home Secretary to recognize the seriousness of spiking, a crime involving offenders putting drugs in victims' drinks with the intent to enable sexual assault later.
Context and Reactions
Prior to the controversy, Cleverly had announced new measures aimed at combating the misuse of knockout drops, particularly targeting the devastating practice of spiking drinks with rape-facilitating substances. Regardless of his prior actions, the Home Secretary's remarks regarding Rohypnol proved divisive and sparked controversy.
Further Reading:
Unfortunately, our sources do not include any record of Cleverly's joke regarding Rohypnol and women's safety in a private setting. Yet, the reactions from women's rights organizations are undoubtedly a testament to the sensitive nature of the issue.
