Twitter users mock outrage at Jeremy Corbyn's 'dignified silence' as picture of Cameron and Obama selfie at Mandela memorial resurfaces
Nods to Corbyn’s ‘dignified’ presence at service and stories of social injustice have been highlighted while others have mocked the outrage
Your support helps us to tell the story
Our mission is to deliver unbiased, fact-based reporting that holds power to account and exposes the truth.
Whether $5 or $50, every contribution counts.
Support us to deliver journalism without an agenda.
Louise Thomas
Editor
As the row over Jeremy Corbyn's decision to stand in "dignified silence" at the Battle of Britain memorial service instead of singing the national anthem continues, those not offended by his actions have spoken out in his defence.
The picture of David Cameron, Barack Obama and Danish Prime Minister Helle-Thorning Schmidt taking a selfie at the memorial service for Nelson Mandela has been widely shared in direct response to the outrage, while many have labelled the debate “daft” or simply mocked the criticism.
Some have made accusations of hypocrisy, while others have shared stories of social injustices they feel should be the focus of the public’s outrage.
Mr Corbyn is a republican and prior to the service issued a statement paying tribute to the “heroism” of the RAF and its role in the Battle of Britain, adding: “The loss of life – both civilian and military – should be commemorated so that we both honour their lives and do all that we can to ensure future generations are spared the horrors of war.”
He chose to stand in "dignified silence" at the event instead of singing, and has since dismissed the criticism as "demeaning" and "tittle tattle".
One surprise defender of Corbyn's actions is Conservative MP James Gray, who said: "The fact is he was there properly dressed, wearing a tie, good on him.
"Well done him. He is a pacifist and not a royalist but he has gone along and stood in the front row."
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments