A Conservative MP has publicly questioned the position of a government adviser following a social media post by the adviser's wife expressing support for Palestine Action.
A Downing Street spokeswoman told the BBC: "These views are held by an individual who does not represent the government in any capacity." The comment was offered in response to the MP's inquiry about whether the adviser’s role should be reviewed in light of the post.
Palestine Action is a campaign group that has staged direct actions and protests relating to the Israel-Palestine conflict. The post by the adviser’s wife prompted the MP to seek clarification about whether the adviser’s personal connections or family views were compatible with their position advising government.
The matter has drawn attention to the boundaries between the private views of family members and the responsibilities of public servants. It was not immediately clear whether any formal steps would be taken to review the adviser's role or whether the adviser or their family would make further comment.