A senior candidate from Reform UK is facing backlash for controversial remarks suggesting that individuals of non-Christian faiths should consume bacon to demonstrate their commitment to Christianity. Chris Parry, who is running as the party’s candidate for Hampshire and the Solent mayoral position, sparked controversy by referencing an article that highlighted concerns about migrants undergoing baptisms in hotel bathtubs to secure asylum.
In a statement made in October, Dr. Parry suggested that individuals from different religious backgrounds should eat bacon for a month as a way to showcase their Christian beliefs and authenticity. Additionally, he shared a post featuring a microwave labeled for Halal food only, responding to a comment by mentioning sausages, which are permissible under Islamic dietary laws, unlike pork.
In another instance in November, Dr. Parry, a former high-ranking officer in the Royal Navy, reiterated his proposal for Christian converts to consume pork for a month before being accepted for baptism. These comments have intensified pressure on Nigel Farage to dismiss Dr. Parry, who is already facing criticism for previous remarks targeting David Lammy.
Anna Turley, Chair of the Labour Party, condemned Dr. Parry’s statements as unacceptable for a public office candidate, criticizing Farage for allowing such views to be represented within Reform UK. She emphasized the divisiveness that these views promote, highlighting the unsuitability of Farage for office.
Recently, it was revealed that Dr. Parry questioned the loyalty of eight public figures from minority ethnic backgrounds to the UK, including Shabana Mahmood, Sadiq Khan, Humza Yousaf, Zarah Sultana, and Anas Sarwar. Dr. Parry defended his comments, stating that they were meant humorously, but stressed the need for thorough verification of asylum claims based on religious grounds to ensure sincerity.
Reform UK declined to provide a response to the situation.