Liam Fox accuses "some elements" of the media of wanting Brexit to fail

Liam Fox has torn into the media over coverage of Brexit, claiming that “some elements” want the UK to fail in its negotiations with Brussels.



The International Trade Secretary is the latest pro-Brexit minister to go on the attack after Andrea Leadsom’s recent claim that broadcasters should be more “patriotic”.

Dr Fox’s comments came in a reply to Tory MP Nigel Evans, who criticised “negative” coverage of Britain’s future trading prospects.

“Does he feel that it’s both wrong and undermines the work that he’s doing?” Mr Evans asked.

BBC ATTACK

“It does appear that some elements of our media would rather see Britain fail than see Brexit succeed,” Dr Fox replied.

“I cannot recall a single time in recent times when I have seen good economic news that the BBC didn’t describe as ‘despite Brexit’.

He returned to the theme later in the questioning when he announced new statistics showing an increase in inward investment to the UK since Brexit.

“No doubt the usual subjects [sic] will describe it as ‘despite Brexit’,” he said.

The tone of his remarks was similar to that adopted by Ms Leadsom, the Leader of the Commons. She told BBC Newsnight last month: "It would be helpful if broadcasters were willing to be a bit patriotic. The country took a decision, this government is determined to deliver on that decision.”

Dr Fox's remarks drew strong criticism from James Chapman, a former lobby journalist who until recently served as chief of staff to Brexit Secretary David Davis.

.@LiamFox is entirely wrong: it's the duty and responsibility of free media to question Brexit. I'd argue they haven't yet scratched surface — James Chapman (@jameschappers) July 6, 2017

Does @Number10gov agree with @LiamFox's irresponsible attack on the free media? I do hope not — James Chapman (@jameschappers) July 6, 2017

I do hope all MPs who support the free press and media will stand with them against what @LiamFox has said in the Commons today — James Chapman (@jameschappers) July 6, 2017

Responding to Dr Fox's comments, the Prime Minister's spokesman said: "Ministers, MPs and others will have their views. It's a matter for newspapers, broadcasters and others to determine the tone and content of their own coverage.

"The Prime Minister has always been clear about the need to have a free press and a free media in this country."