Jacob Rees-Mogg apologises to doctor for comparison to anti-vaxxer
Jacob Rees-Mogg has apologised for comparing a doctor to a disgraced anti-vaxxer in a row over a no-deal Brexit.
The Leader of the House of Commons and prominent Brexiteer came under fire after saying David Nicholl, a consultant neurologist at Sandwell Hospital, was as irresponsible as Andrew Wakefield, who was struck off the medical register over remarks on the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, for saying people could die if the UK crashes out of the EU without a deal.
Dr Nicholl told the Express & Star this week he stood by his comments made during an exchange on LBC radio. He said the comparison with Dr Wakefield "beggars belief".
Following intense pressure from the medical profession, Mr Rees-Mogg said: "I apologise to Dr Nicholl for the comparison with Dr Wakefield.
"I have the utmost respect for all of the country's hardworking medical professionals and the work they do in caring for the people of this country.
"The Government is working closely with the NHS, industry and distributors to help ensure the supply of medicine and medical products remains uninterrupted once we leave the EU on October 31, whatever the circumstances."
Health Secretary Matt Hancock suggested Mr Rees-Mogg was right to apologise and said: "One of my jobs as Health Secretary is to stick up for doctors. It's vital clinicians can provide expert advice. I defend to the hilt the right of clinicians and civil servants to provide advice without fear or favour. I’m glad Jacob has apologised."
