MP's call to end politician abuse after home attacked

Andrew Western MP vowed not to "be cowed" by "these idiots"

A newly re-elected MP has called for an end to the "toxicity in our politics" after he posted on social media about an alleged incident at his home.

Responding to another post on X, Stretford and Urmston MP Andrew Western spoke of someone "taking a sledgehammer" to his home on Saturday night.

In the post, the Labour MP said "no-one was hurt". He said it was being investigated by police as part of Operation Bridger, which was set up to give MPs access to extra security after the murder of MP Jo Cox.

Mr Western said "harassment, intimidation and abuse of politicians is not OK" and vowed not to "be cowed". Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has been contacted for comment by the BBC.

'More regular occurrence'

He posted: "I am absolutely fine and no-one was hurt but the toxicity in our politics at present must be drawn out.

"The harassment, intimidation and abuse of politicians is not OK."

However he said it was "becoming an ever more regular occurrence".

He added: "I am proud to represent the people of Stretford and Urmston and I will not be cowed as I seek to serve them to the best of my ability."

After thanking GMP for an "excellent response", he added: "These idiots do not speak for our community and I will do all I can to ensure they never do."

The BBC contacted Mr Western but he did not want to comment further.

Operation Bridger was set up to provide MPs with extra security for their homes and offices after the murder of Ms Cox in 2016.

Mr Western was re-elected with 22,642 votes, receiving a 49% share of the votes.