Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has declined opposition calls to return money to a Conservative donor, Frank Hester, who reportedly made controversial comments about MP Diane Abbott.
Although the PM acknowledged that Hester’s alleged remarks were “wrong” and “racist”, he emphasized that Mr. Hester had apologized and that his “remorse should be accepted”.
Frank Hester, a significant donor to the Conservative Party, has contributed over £10 million. In November, he gifted Mr. Sunak the use of a helicopter for a political visit, valued at £15,000.
During Prime Minister’s Questions, Labour MP Marsha de Cordova directly asked Mr. Sunak if he would return the helicopter donation, to which he replied, “No”. He further highlighted that Mr. Hester supports a party that represents one of the most diverse governments in the country’s history, led by the UK’s first British Asian prime minister.
Despite the controversy, Mr. Sunak maintained that there is “no place for racism in Britain” and that the government he leads is living proof of this commitment1. However, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer urged the PM to “pluck up the courage to hand back the £10 million”.
The debate continues, with differing views on whether accepting donations from individuals with controversial statements aligns with the values of political parties.
In the midst of this, MP Diane Abbott, who currently sits as an independent MP after being suspended by Labour, was present in the Commons chamber but did not have the opportunity to ask a question of her own.
Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle prioritized MPs listed on the order paper, and there was insufficient time to call all members who wanted to participate.
The situation highlights the delicate balance between political funding, accountability, and the need to address racially insensitive remarks within the political landscape.
Who is Frank Hester?
Frank Hester, born Francis Xavier James Hester in April 1966, is a British businessman and the founder and CEO of the software company The Phoenix Partnership.
His significant contributions to the Conservative Party have made him the largest-ever donor, having given a staggering £10 million in the year leading up to March 2024.
Here are some key points about Frank Hester:
Background and Origins: Hester hails from Irish parentage and grew up in Armley, a district in the west of Leeds, West Yorkshire.
Business Ventures:
He founded The Phoenix Partnership in 1997, a company specializing in providing healthcare technology. The Guardian reported that his company secured contracts worth £135 million since April 2020 from the Department of Health and Social Care, primarily for work under the GP IT Futures framework.
Honors and Wealth:
In recognition of his contributions to healthcare, Hester was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2015 New Year Honours. As of 2023, the Sunday Times Rich List estimates his net worth at an impressive £415 million.
Political Affiliations:
Hester’s political journey is intriguing. He previously voted for the Green Party but shifted his allegiance to the Conservative Party. His decision was influenced by his belief that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak “understands and values the NHS and wants to tackle some of its most pressing challenges”.
Generous Donations:
In September 2023, Hester donated £5 million to the UK’s Conservative Party. Subsequently, in February 2024, he made another substantial contribution of £5 million, solidifying his status as the party’s largest-ever donor.
Helicopter Gift:
In November 2023, Hester provided Prime Minister Rishi Sunak with the use of a helicopter for a political visit, valued at £15,000 according to parliamentary records.
Controversial Remarks:
Recently, The Guardian reported that Hester made derogatory comments about MP Diane Abbott in 2019, stating that she “makes you want to hate all black women” and that she “should be shot.” Hester’s company clarified that while he was rude about Diane Abbott in a private meeting, his criticism was unrelated to her gender or skin color, and he abhors racism.
Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch described these alleged comments as “racist,” and Abbott reported them to the Metropolitan Police.
Frank Hester’s involvement in political funding, coupled with the controversy surrounding his remarks, has sparked debate and scrutiny within the political landscape.
