Conservative MP in 'n****r in the woodpile' storm has party whip restored
2 min read
A Conservative MP who sparked a race row by describing a no-deal Brexit as "the n****r in the woodpile" has had the party whip restored.
Anne Marie Morris said she had apologised "unreservedly" for using the "inappropriate and offensive language".
She was suspended by the Conservatives five months ago after she was recorded using the inflammatory phrase at a panel event in London.
Speaking at the exclusive East India Club on 10 July, Ms Morris argued only 7% of financial services in the UK would be affected by Brexit.
The MP for Newton Abbot added: "Now I’m sure there will be many people who’ll challenge that, but my response and my request is look at the detail, it isn’t all doom and gloom.
"Now we get to the real n****r in the woodpile which is in two years what happens if there is no deal?"
The phrase was common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the US to denote something considered to be suspicious or wrong.
Announcing her suspension, Theresa May said she was "shocked" by the "completely unacceptable" language.
"I immediately asked the chief whip to suspend the party whip," she said in a statement. "Language like this has absolutely no place in politics or in today's society."
However, it has now emerged that following an investigation, Ms Morris has been welcomed back into the Tory fold.
In a statement, the MP said: "I would like to take this opportunity to apologise again for using such inappropriate and offensive language. It was a mistake and I regret it unreservedly.
"I have learned from this experience and have a new determination to uphold the highest possible standards in public life. I feel proud and privileged to be a Member of Parliament and I will continue to serve my community and my country to the best of my ability."
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