MP Andrea Jenkyns has issued a statement saying she had 'reached the end of her tether' when she was filmed sticking a finger up at crowds booing Boris Johnson on Thursday.
The video of the Morley and Outwood MP, who also shouted "He who laughs last, laughs the loudest. Wait and see" prompted angry reactions from scores of people. This only increased when she was promoted yesterday to Parliamentary Under Secretary for the Department for Education.
Journalists, politicians and social media users widely condemned her gesture, saying it was inappropriate and asking 'is this the role model we want for our children?'
Read more: BBC viewers hail Leeds 'queen' who didn't know Boris Johnson had resigned
Jenkyns has now responded by issuing a statement on Twitter. It reads: "On Thursday afternoon I went to Downing Street to watch the Prime Minister's resignation speech. A baying mob outside the gates were insulting MPs on their way in as is sadly all too common.
"After receiving huge amounts of abuse from some of the people who were there over the years, and I have also had seven death threats in the last 4 years. Two of which have been in recent weeks and are currently being investigated by the police, I had reached the end of my tether.
"I responded and stood up for myself. Just why should anyone have to put up with this sort of treatment. I should have shown more composure but am only human."
The tweeted statement has already received over one thousand replies, with many unhappy with Jenkyn's response. Her description of the public as a 'baying mob' has been particularly criticised.
Dr Shola Mos-Shogbamimu said: "This is clearly not an apology Andrea Jenkyns." She added: "You owe the public an apology as Education Minister. #andreajenkyns"
"Hardly a baying mob. Even less of an apology. Resign," said Philip McGowan.
Journalist Lorraine King had earlier said: "The new education minister Andrea Jenkyns setting a fine example to teachers and pupils. I wonder how she would feel if they returned the gesture during a visit to a school"
Radio host James O'Brien tweeted yesterday: "I'm off ai for a fortnight. Have this one for free, fellow phone-in hosts: "Teachers, what would happen in your school if you gave the finger to pupils, parents or random members of the public?"
Jenkyns has been a reliable supporter of Boris Johnson, having backed him during the no-confidence vote and never calling for him to resign. Previously she has been very vocal about supporting Brexit.
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