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BBC political reporter, Paul Moseley, from Norfolk, reports that a council leader has issued an “unreserved” apology for a Facebook post sharing a picture of a steak dinner with a caption that seemed insensitive. The post by Norfolk County Council’s Conservative leader, Kay Mason Billig, featured a tomahawk steak, red wine, and salad, accompanied by the words, “Wonder what all the poor people are doing?” Mason Billig clarified that it was a private joke taken out of context and not directed at anyone in particular, according to The Eastern Daily Press.
Liberal Democrat group leader Brian Watkins criticized the post, stating that it trivialized the struggles of many residents in the county who are facing financial difficulties. Watkins called for Mason Billig’s resignation following the controversy surrounding her social media sharing. Mason Billig, who has been the council leader since 2023 and is entitled to allowances exceeding £51,000, expressed regret if her post had caused offense, affirming that it was not her intention to offend anyone.
Mason Billig defended her post, explaining that she and her husband jokingly refer to themselves as “the poor people” due to their modest living arrangements. She reiterated that the content was not meant to belittle those who are less fortunate and expressed disappointment that the post was misconstrued. Despite the personal nature of the post, University of Essex professor of government, Paul Whiteley, cautioned politicians about using social media, emphasizing the potential for misinterpretation by the public.
Opposition leaders in Norfolk, such as Watkins and Labour group leader Steve Morphew, criticized Mason Billig for being out of touch and insensitive to the struggles faced by many residents in the county. Watkins reiterated his call for Mason Billig to resign, citing the responsibility of councillors to uphold high standards of conduct, even in their personal capacity. Morphew echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of elected officials being mindful of their public statements and actions
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