The Conservative Party is facing calls to return a £10m donation from Frank Hester, a major donor, after he made derogatory comments about former Labour MP Diane Abbott. Reported comments from a 2019 meeting suggested Hester expressed discriminatory views towards Abbott, stating that seeing her on TV made one “want to hate all black women” and that she “should be shot.” These remarks have prompted condemnation across the political spectrum.

Labour Party chair Anneliese Dodds has urged the Conservative Party, led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, to return the donations received from Hester, arguing that retaining the funds would be tantamount to condoning his remarks. Liberal Democrats have echoed this sentiment, also calling on the government to ensure Hester does not receive a peerage.

Despite Hester’s lawyers contesting the accuracy of the reported comments and Hester himself stating that his remarks were rude but not based on Abbott’s gender or race, the incident has intensified scrutiny on political donations and the accountability of high-profile donors. Hester, who is the founder and CEO of a healthcare technology firm with significant contracts with the NHS, had previously apologised for his comments, acknowledging their rudeness but denying any discriminatory intent.

Critics from both the Labour and Liberal Democrat parties, including shadow health secretary Wes Streeting, have described Hester’s language as “racist and inciteful.” The controversy arises amid a wider debate on racism and discrimination in public life, with demands for stringent action against such behaviors.

As the debate continues, the Conservative Party faces increasing pressure to distance itself from Hester by returning his substantial contributions. The incident also raises questions about the implications of private donations on political integrity and the measures in place to address discriminatory conduct among high-profile political figures and donors.