Nandy rejects claims of politicising Remembrance Sunday after Erasmus row
UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy is facing backlash from Conservative politicians for linking the UK's rejoining of the EU's Erasmus scheme to Remembrance Sunday commemorations. Critics argue the timing and framing were inappropriate and politicized a day meant for honoring veterans.
Why it matters
The controversy highlights the ongoing sensitivity surrounding Brexit-related policies and the political tension over how national symbols and commemorations are utilized by government officials.
Image source, PA Image caption, The culture secretary was interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg on Sunday
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has rejected accusations of politicising Remembrance Sunday after being criticised for linking the event to the UK rejoining the European Union's Erasmus scheme.
Her department announced on Saturday night that "as we mark Remembrance Sunday, Erasmus+ will give a new generation the chance to build connections across Europe".
That sparked a backlash from the Conservatives who said "veterans did not fight for a student exchange scheme" and accused her of making an "EU membership pitch".
Nandy said she was "horrified" by the Tory response and insisted the expanded EU scheme for study and work would help young Britons recognise wartime sacrifice.
The UK is rejoining the scheme in January , six years after leaving as part of the Brexit deal.
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