Elon Musk has branded Sir Ed Davey a “craven coward” after the Liberal Democrat leader accused the American billionaire of “inciting violence” with his appearance at the Unite the Kingdom protest.
Sir Ed today called for the Telsa owner to be sanctioned over remarks he made to crowds attending the rally led by Tommy Robinson, real name Stephen Yaxley- Lennon, on Saturday.
More than two dozen police officers were injured when violence erupted in central London between flag-wearing thugs, police and counter-protesters.
The march saw more than 110,000 people in attendance and attracted international attention, with Musk appearing on a video link to address the crowds.
The X owner said that there was something “beautiful” about being British and referenced the assassination of Charlie Kirk, who was shot dead in front of an audience at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
“There’s this genuine risk of rape and murder and the destruction of the country and the dissolution of the entire way of life,” the world’s richest man told protesters.
“The left is the party of murder and celebrating murder. I mean, let that sink in for a minute, that’s who we’re dealing with here.”
On Monday Sir Ed Davey called on his fellow party leaders to condemn Musk’s comments.
In a letter to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, Sir Ed said: “The United Kingdon has always prided itself on resolving disagreements through debate, through the ballot box, and through the rule of law.
“The recent conduct of Elon Musk – deliberately spreading misinformation, stoking anger and encouraging violence – represents a reckless and dangerous assault on those values.
“This attempt to endanger public safety and meddle in our politics must be met with clarity and resolve.
“At times like this, it is vital that the people of our country see their leaders united. That is why I am writing to urge each of you to put party politics aside and join me in publicly condemning these dangerous remarks, and to jointly consider what sanctions Elon Musk should face as a consequence.
“We must make clear that no individual, however wealthy or powerful, can get away with using their platform to inflame tensions and incite violence.”
Mr Musk replied to on X, the social media platform he owns, saying: “You are a craven coward.”
At least 26 police officers were injured as they faced “significant aggression” from protesters at a “freedom of speech festival” led by far-right activist Robinson, Scotland Yard said.
There had been 25 arrests at the “Unite the Kingdom” protest for offences including affray, violent disorder, assaults and criminal damage at 7.30pm on Saturday, the force added.
More than a hundred helmeted officers backed up by dozens of police horses rushed at the last of Robinson’s supporters after between 110,000 and 150,000 people took part in the march. Police horses sped through Whitehall at around 5.45pm on Saturday, while some protesters faced them carrying flags, as the event came to a close.
