Tory MP Jacob Rees-Mogg hits out at claims he’s a ‘deadbeat dad’ for not changing nappies
TORY MP Jacob Rees-Mogg has hit out at claims he is a “deadbeat dad” for not changing nappies.
The dad-of-six waded in to the row as former deputy Labour leader calls for MPs to be granted formal parental leave.
The controversy comes after Rees-Mogg said he wasn’t a “modern man” and had never changed a nappy after announcing the birth of his sixth child Sixtus in July.
Harman said: “Men who don’t change nappies are deadbeat dads and that includes Jacob Rees-Mogg.”
“What model of fatherhood do we want parliament to portray? The ‘Rees-Mogg model’ or the modern father who – as well as the mother – is involved with a newborn.”
But the backbench Tory MP, who has dismissed talk over the summer of being party leader, said he would “lose little sleep over Harriet Harman’s disapproval”.
He added: “I should’ve been surprised if it was otherwise.”
Last night Rees-Mogg labelled Harman a “busybody socialist” for questioning his family life.
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He said: “I am flattered that Miss Harman takes such an interest in the Rees-Mogg household and amused that she shows herself as a typical busybody socialist.
“They always think they can lead other people’s lives for them.”
Harman is demanding that new parent MPs nomiante a colleague who can cast votes for them and appoint a staff member to handle casework during their six-month maternity leave.
She felt she lost out at not having any paid leave after the birth of her three children.
Rees-Mogg sparked controversy this week said he was against abortion in all circumstances and he doesn’t agree with gay marriage.
He said: “It’s a feee country and everyone’s entitled to express an opinion. Why should I get flustered?”