It turns out that quite a few Labour MPs are following JK Rowling on X, which used be called Twitter. Some top cabinet members are among those followers, showing an interesting connection with an author whose opinions on trans rights have stirred up a lot debate.
According information from Who Do MPs Follow, at least 147 out 378 Labour MPs on X are keeping up Rowling's posts. That's around 36% Labour's entire parliamentary group engaging with her on this platform.
Rowling's views and their impact
JK Rowling, famous writer behind Harry Potter, has been pretty vocal in 'gender-critical' movement since 2019. Her essay "TERF Wars" laid out her concerns with what she sees as "new trans activism," sparking conversation among both fans and critics.
Despite a lot backlash over her statements on trans women, Rowling still has a hefty following. And yes, that includes many politicians from Labour Party who interact with her social media updates.
Key Labour followers
Among Labour MPs following Rowling are Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who've faced criticism over his views on puberty blockers, and Ed Milibrand, former Labour leader. Others like Bridget Philipson, equalities minister, and Angela Rayner, former party Deputy Leader, are also on her follower list.
Conservative MPs and social media habits
It turns out fewer Conservative MPs are following Rowling, with only 32 out 116 Tories keeping tabs on her on X. That adds up about 27% Tory MPs, which points out noticeable differences in social media habits between two parties.
All told, at least 201 MPs from different UK political parties follow Rowling on X, showing her reach across more than just Labour Party.
Links other gender-critical voices
Besides Rowling, Labour MPs also follow other figures who share similar gender-critical views. This includes 25 MPs following Maya Forstatter, founder Sex Matters, and 39 following journalist Julie Bindel. Additionally, 15 Labour MPs follow writer Helen Joyce and 13 keep up with Graham Linehan.
Controversial connections
Some Labour MPs are also connected Laurence Fox, an actor and right-wing commentator involved in several controversies. Fox faced charges last year related sharing an inappropriate photo, which he denies, and he was ordered pay £180,000 in defamation case involving a Drag Race star.
This trend Labour MPs engaging with gender-critical figures comes amid ongoing criticism Labour's stance on trans rights. A YouGov survey last year showed 91% trans people in UK distrust Labour Party, highlighting a big disconnect between party policies and perspectives trans community.
These findings highlight complexities within Labour Party as it navigates issues around gender and trans rights, with MPs showing diverse social media affiliations that sometimes echo controversial opinions.
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