Theresa May accepts George Osborne apology over reports he wants her 'chopped up in bags in freezer'

Theresa May and George Osborne
Theresa May and George Osborne

Theresa May has accepted an apology from George Osborne after he reportedly claimed that he will not rest until Theresa May is "chopped up in bags in my freezer".

The former Chancellor-turned-newspaper editor made the remark about the Prime Minister "to more than one person", according to a profile in Esquire. 

Writing in the Evening Standard, Mr Osborne admitted that "harsh words" have been exchanged over Brexit but says that differences of opinion are no reason for "intemperate language".

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May 
Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May  Credit: Ben Stansall - WPA Pool/Getty Images

He wrote: "In the battles over Brexit, and over the future direction of the Conservative Party, some harsh words have been said about the Prime Minister.

"Her advisers created a poisonous atmosphere among senior Tories. But they are now gone, and a much more consensual team has recently replaced them in Downing Street. Mrs May’s critics in her party will want to respond in kind.

"We can reflect that strong differences of opinion do not need intemperate language, even when said in jest."

Speaking in New York, Mrs May said: "I, of course, accept an apology if that's been given. I must confess I haven't actually read it myself.

George Osborne, Editor of the Evening Standard and former Chancellor 
George Osborne, Editor of the Evening Standard and former Chancellor  Credit: REUTERS

"I don’t pay attention to these things. What matters is that I'm getting on with the job and focusing on what the British people want."

Mr Osborne also praised Mrs May for leading the fight against modern slavery, saying that "whatever the future holds for her leadership" it "reminds us of Mrs May's qualities".

 

License this content