Kemi Badenoch, the Foreign Secretary, has criticized Ed Miliband, stating he should be ashamed of a past interview with comedian Russell Brand conducted in an attempt to gain political influence. The remarks came during Prime Minister's Questions, where Badenoch challenged Miliband's judgment.
In 2015, Miliband, then leader of the Labour Party, recorded an interview at Brand's residence. This was released as part of Brand's online show, "The Trews," during Miliband's unsuccessful bid to become prime minister.
Badenoch also targeted Miliband's stance on the Rosebank oilfield, which he had previously described as "climate vandalism." She contrasted this with his perceived efforts to align with Brand for electoral gain, questioning his decision-making abilities.
Brand was recently sentenced to ten and a half years in prison for rape and sexual assault charges. During the exchange in Parliament, Labour MPs responded to Badenoch's comments with shouts of "shame," to which she retorted that the Foreign Secretary himself should be ashamed.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham addressed the Rosebank decision at the time, stating a decision would be made in due course alongside efforts to develop renewable energy. Downing Street defended Miliband, with Education Secretary Lucy Powell remarking that the interview occurred in a "different era" when information about public figures was less accessible, despite the interview's aim to leverage Brand's social media reach.
A spokesperson for the Prime Minister indicated that while it's not always possible to know everything about public figures, accountability for wrongdoing is crucial. The spokesperson also commended the bravery of Brand's victims and the journalists who exposed the allegations. When asked if Prime Minister Burnham had sought an explanation from Miliband regarding his contact with Brand, the spokesperson referred to Powell's earlier statements.