Harrogate MP slams Donald Trump's 'assault on democracy' after US turmoil in Washington

Harrogate's MP has slammed the "shameful" events of this week in America's Capitol which left five dead, blaming outgoing president Donald Trump for the riotous scenes which shocked the world.
Five people were killed after rioters stormed the Capitol building in Washington DC on Wednesday. (Picture: Getty Images)Five people were killed after rioters stormed the Capitol building in Washington DC on Wednesday. (Picture: Getty Images)
Five people were killed after rioters stormed the Capitol building in Washington DC on Wednesday. (Picture: Getty Images)

Andrew Jones said all the evidence was that the recent US presidential election has been free and fair and Mr Trump's behaviour had been "appalling".

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The Harrogate and Knaresborough MP said: "It's been a disgraceful episode in American's story. Donald Trump should have accepted the result.

"He didn't create the problems leading to the anger in America but he has revved up all the people to behave in the dreadful way they did.

"To invade the chamber, and sit in the speaker's chair is an assault on democracy.

"The loss of life was truly shocking. Trump's behaviour has been appalling."

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Mr Jones said he was used to "grim times" in Parliament in London during the endless arguments over Brexit which threatened to damage Britain's reputation for good governance.

But this week's scenes in Washington were "shameful" and cast a dark shadow over democracy there.

He said: "It was an awful time in the Commons in 2019. People were behaving so badly. It was a grim time.

"Everyone was trying to enforce their own way over Brexit and argue over the then Prime Minister Theresa May's deal.

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"In fact, the tone only changed when the current government won a clear majority.

"I believe in the UK the population moved on from Brexit before the political classes.

"But it's been much worse in America. I've been there many times and I know a lot of decent normal Americans themselves will be horrified by what's been happening.

"Donald Trump should have left the stage in good grace. He should have respected the result.

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"If you lose the election in a democracy you have to hand over power.

"The only thing we will remember Trump for now will be the manner of his exit.

"Fortunately, the political system in the USA has reestablished its authority and brought back some order."

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