Columnist Jan Moir has criticized a perceived new generation of politicians, predominantly women, for what she describes as "woke lunacy," "cry-baby" attitudes, and a focus on "not all about you and your needs" to the detriment of public service.
Moir points to several examples to support her thesis. She recounts Labour MP Stella Creasy's widely mocked social media post about a parakeet in London, which she mistakenly believed was a lost pet. Moir suggests that Creasy's subsequent reaction, where she deleted the post and lamented perceived press harshness, typifies a trend of "elaborately assumed victimhood."
The column also mentions Green Party MP Carla Denyer, who announced a leave of absence due to "occupational burnout." Moir questions the nature of Denyer's illness, suggesting it could be a result of being "fed up" rather than genuine health issues, linking it to Denyer's past activism, which included declaring Bristol a climate emergency zone and advocating for congestion charges.
Furthermore, Moir cites Natalie Fleet's resignation as safeguarding minister after less than two months, citing the role as "overwhelmingly triggering" and "making me ill." Moir contrasts this with the perceived bravery of staying in the role to help others who have suffered similar trauma. Fleet was appointed after Jess Phillips resigned from the position.
Moir contends that this "wokist manifesto" reclassifies weakness as strength and celebrates performative vulnerability. She argues that being a Member of Parliament is a role requiring resilience and a focus on serving constituents, rather than personal grievances.
The author also briefly touches on other figures and news items, including singer Adele's success, the widow of PC Andrew Harper's comments on early prisoner releases, actress Jameela Jamil's criticisms of British history, and television presenter Holly Willoughby's new YouTube show. However, these sections are largely tangential to the central critique of contemporary politicians.