Former Reform UK MP Under Fire for ‘Jewish Camera’ Remark Caught on Camera
Rupert Lowe, the independent MP for Great Yarmouth and former member of Reform UK, has sparked widespread condemnation after being caught on camera making an antisemitic comment during a meeting at Parliament. The leaked video, obtained by The Guardian, has ignited calls from campaign groups and community leaders for an immediate apology.
In the footage, believed to have been filmed earlier this year, Lowe refers to a camera used in the meeting as a “Jewish camera”, joking that calling it so “would be politically incorrect” due to its small size. His remark, dismissed by Lowe as a forgotten “joke,” has triggered a swift backlash from Jewish advocacy organizations and public officials.
The Comment That Sparked the Firestorm
The short clip shows Rupert Lowe seated on a green sofa alongside parliamentary staff when he gestures toward a small camera and says:
“In days gone by you’d call it a Jewish camera, but that would be politically incorrect. Because it’s so small.”
The group laughs nervously before one off-camera voice warns, “Career over in a second,” to which Lowe repeats the phrase, seemingly amused by the remark’s controversial nature.
When questioned by reporters, Lowe claimed he did not remember the comment but alleged that, “If I did say that, it would have been a joke. This is a ludicrous smear attempt.”
Condemnation from Jewish Organizations and Political Leaders
Jewish groups have denounced the language as not only offensive but also perpetuating harmful antisemitic stereotypes.
The Board of Deputies of British Jews, the leading representative body for the UK Jewish community, responded swiftly, stating:
“This bizarre and outdated antisemitic language has no place in modern political discourse. Mr. Lowe must apologize immediately.”
The Campaign Against Antisemitism also criticized the remark, highlighting its damaging impact during a time of rising hate speech incidents in British public life.
A Tumultuous Political Career: From Reform UK to Independent
Rupert Lowe’s latest controversy comes just months after he was suspended by Reform UK in March. His removal followed a highly public falling-out with party leader Nigel Farage, amid allegations of bullying and internal discord—accusations Lowe has firmly denied.
Since then, Lowe has continued to serve as an independent MP and has been vocal about forming a new right-wing political party or possibly aligning with the Conservative Party. In recent weeks, he suggested that he has received support from tech billionaire Elon Musk, who has previously criticized Farage and praised Lowe’s independent stance.
Public Backlash and Calls for Accountability
Public reaction has been overwhelmingly critical. Social media users and constituents alike are demanding that Lowe not only apologize but also consider resigning from Parliament.
Prominent political commentator and anti-racism advocate Dr. Rachel Morgan commented on Twitter:
“Whether intended as a joke or not, Rupert Lowe’s remark reflects outdated, dangerous thinking. Our MPs should lead with integrity—not casual bigotry.”
Meanwhile, advocacy organizations are calling on Parliamentary Standards Commissioners to investigate the matter further.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Rupert Lowe
This latest scandal threatens to overshadow Rupert Lowe’s political ambitions and may derail his plans to launch a new movement or rejoin a mainstream party. In an era where public figures are held accountable more than ever before, this incident will likely linger unless addressed with a clear, public apology and accountability.
As campaigners continue to demand answers, the ball is now in Lowe’s court: Will he apologize and take responsibility—or dig deeper into defiance?
