Leave.EU deletes tweet warning of 'Orlando-style atrocity' following backlash
A controversial Twitter campaign by Leave.EU which encouraged people to vote for Brexit to avoid “an Orlando-style atrocity here” has now been deleted.
The political group received backlash from Twitter users who described the poster as “disgraceful, xenophobic scaremongering”, “simply abhorrent” and “shameful and cowardly”.
The tweet, which was issued in response to an attack on an Orlando gay bar over the weekend, stated: “Islamic extremism is a real threat to our way of life” and insinuated that the UK could be a target for further attacks if people did not vote to leave the EU in the forthcoming referendum.
The attack on Pulse nightclub is one of the worst shooting massacres in US history with over 50 people killed and more injured. The perpetrator reportedly pledged allegiance to Isis before turning the gun on himself following a three-hour hostage situation.
Leave.EU, which is supported by Ukip leader Nigel Farage but it is not the official ‘out’ campaign, has yet to respond to complaints about the post.
The tweet was criticised by a number of Twitter users, including Leave.EU’s own followers and several MPs.
Just when you thought EUref cdnt get more depressing, LeaveEU releases poster using Orlando to score cheap points about Brexit. Jesus.
— Gaby Hinsliff (@gabyhinsliff) June 13, 2016
.@LeaveEUOfficial This is really shameful. — Nicky Morgan (@NickyMorgan01) June 13, 2016
Shameful and cowardly. Our best protection against terror is standing together whether in Orlando, Paris or Brussels https://t.co/Cp0LOqGXxe
— Hilary Benn (@hilarybennmp) June 13, 2016
To say that this campaign is in the gutter would be far too generous. Vile campaigning. https://t.co/OfWLLKeNIl — Caroline Lucas (@CarolineLucas) June 13, 2016
.@LeaveEUOfficial source tells me the person who put up THAT graphic has been "told off" and describes it as "a cluster fuck"
— Owen Bennett (@owenjbennett) June 13, 2016
Last night (12 June), Guardian columnist Owen Jones walked out of a live recording of Sky News' 'Press Preview' show after a clash with fellow guests over the Orlando attacks.