Britain's ex-minister Matt Hancock defends decision to appear on 'I’m A Celebrity' TV show

Conservative Party MP Matt Hancock’s whip was suspended by the Chief Whip of the Conservative Party, Simon Hart. However, Matt Hancock defended his move to join the reality TV show “I’m A Celebrity”, which was the primary reason for the suspension. The former health secretary says that politicians ought to be where the people were instead of sitting in the ivory towers in Westminster.

Matt Hancock defended his decision and said he wasn’t out of mind for grabbing the opportunity to join the ITV show. He added that looking down on reality TV wasn’t the way forward. Instead, he suggested using the platform as a powerful tool for putting the party message in front of younger generations. Hancock also stated that considering a reality TV show to be beneath politicians was a patronizing act.

Sources close to the former minister claimed that Hancock took the decision to join “I’m A Celebrity” only after he was sure of not being a part of the new government. Some supporters argued that over 12 million Brits tune in to the reality show every night, which definitely is a huge opportunity for him. A few reports also suggested that Hancock would be using the platform to create awareness about his dyslexia campaign.


However, Hancock continued to receive flak from his Conservative Party colleagues. Deputy chairman of the West Suffolk Conservative Association, Andy Drummond also joined the chorus against Hancock joining the TV show.

FAQs

• When does the new season of I’m A Celebrity start?
The new season of the popular reality show will premiere in April 2023.

• Who is Matt Hancock?
Matt Hancock is a Tory MP and the UK's former home secretary.