Good Morning Britain host Richard Madeley has come under fire after suggesting that 'God helps people who help themselves' during a debate about the rising cost of living. Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid were joined by broadcaster Sophie Corcoran and Independent writer Femi Oluwole for a debate on the breakfast programme this morning, May 17.
The discussion about the cost of living crisis came about in response to comments made by safeguarding minister Rachel Maclean to Sky News' Kay Burley. Rachel suggested that those struggling with the cost of living could take on more hours at work, or move to a better paid job; Labour said her comments were 'disconnected from the realities of people's minds'.
Since the cost of living crisis has arisen, there has been fierce debate whether people can mitigate the impact of the crisis themselves, or whether it is out of their hands entirely. Speaking on today's show, Richard suggested that those who are struggling could help themselves.
Richard said to Femi, who holds the view that government intervention is needed for people to survive: "There are the factors like what’s happening in Ukraine, the Bank of England says that's a major factor… but do you think [Sophie] has got a point?
"We are too quick as a society, largely because of social media, to jump on the heads of people who are going into areas which yes, are controversial, but some people would say needs saying. In other words, God helps people who help themselves.
"It's an old saying, but it has a degree of wisdom to it, doesn’t it?"
Richard's comment, as usual at the moment, has led to social media users expressing their fury towards the Good Morning Britain presenter. Baudi Movin said: "Richard Madeley is so out of touch it’s unbelievable #goodmorningbritain"
Georgina wrote: "Richard Madeley, God is NOT going to turn around and let me step out of my wheelchair, rid me of my chronic pain and CFS/ME, in order for me to go back to work, despite my BSC degree!! Think before you speak!"
"I have lost count of the times I shout “Oh shut up Richard!” When watching #GMB" said Christine Marriott.
Keegoefc said: "Richard Madeley has literally just said on @GMB "God helps those who help themselves." in relation to cost of living crisis. So all those people doing their best across Britain to keep heads above water can expect a cheque in the post off God to cover 54% increase in energy costs."
"Honestly, Richard Madeley needs to reconsider his words or perhaps think about his usefulness on GMB," Steven W said. "Using the “God helps those who help themselves” is particularly shortsighted in current circumstances. Or is he suggesting we pray for more money and a better quality of life?"
Shortly after Richard made his 'out of touch' comment, Femi defended those struggling to cope with the cost of living crisis. Femi said: "I think individuals are trying the most they can possibly do.
"People are working extremely hard right now, people are having to make sacrifices in terms of them being able to eat compared to their children being able to eat. That is already happening.
"Yet the government keeps saying things that implies it's the people's fault. Jacob Rees-Mogg and Dominic Raab are saying that people are struggling with Brexit just because they’re not managing their businesses properly."
Richard Madeley has developed something of a reputation for himself when it comes to infuriating Good Morning Britain viewers in recent times. Just yesterday (May 16), the presenter came under fire for criticising those who work from home, claiming that it can be hard for bosses to monitor work performance.
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