Elon Musk has triggered a political firestorm in the UK after using his social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to call for the release of far-right activist Tommy Robinson and accuse Labour leader Keir Starmer of failing to prosecute child rapists during his time as Director of Public Prosecutions. Musk’s pinned post stating “Free Tommy Robinson!” has drawn sharp criticism from Labour MPs, who view his actions as an explicit endorsement of far-right ideologies.
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is currently serving a prison sentence for contempt of court after spreading false allegations about a Syrian refugee. Musk has not only called for his release but also attacked Starmer and safeguarding minister Jess Phillips over their handling of historic child exploitation scandals in Rochdale and Oldham. Musk alleged that Starmer, as head of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) from 2008 to 2013, failed to approve charges against offenders, and claimed Phillips “deserved to be in prison” for deflecting responsibility for an inquiry onto Oldham council.
The posts, which also included accusations of a political cover-up to protect Starmer, have angered many MPs, with some calling on the UK government to sever ties with X. Critics argue that Musk’s platform has become a breeding ground for misinformation and divisive rhetoric under his ownership.
Musk’s growing involvement in British politics has raised further concerns after reports emerged that he may donate up to $100m (£80m) to Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party. His recent meeting with Farage and the party’s treasurer, Nick Candy, has fueled speculation about his financial backing of far-right movements, both in the UK and abroad.
Oldham council, a focal point of Musk’s accusations, emphasized its commitment to survivors of child sexual exploitation. A spokesperson acknowledged past failures and pledged to center survivors’ voices in future inquiries. Meanwhile, Downing Street has declined to comment on the controversy.
Musk’s latest remarks mark his most direct intervention in UK politics and have sparked renewed debate about the role of social media platforms in amplifying polarizing figures and narratives. His actions are seen as further entrenching his position as a controversial and divisive force in global political discourse.
