Theresa May expresses ‘concern’ about allegations against Harvey Weinstein as MPs call to strip movie mogul of CBE
PM’s spokesman said disgraced producer’s honorary award was a matter for an independent committee
THERESA May has expressed “concern” about the allegations against Harvey Weinstein amid calls by MPs to strip the movie mogul of his CBE.
But the Prime Minister’s spokesman would not be drawn on the status of disgraced producer’s honorary award - saying it was a matter for an independent committee.
He told a Westminster briefing: "She said that she was concerned by the allegations that have been put.
"But on the issue of honours, that's obviously an independent process carried out by the Forfeiture committee.
"Each case is considered on its merits, but that's entirely separate from us."
Mr Weinstein has become embroiled in a series of allegations he sexually harassed female employees and movie stars over decades as one of Hollywood’s most powerful men.
The 65-year-old was given the CBE in 2004 for his contribution the British film industry, but Tory MP Maria Miller said the idea he had an honour from the UK did not “sit comfortably” anymore.
She called on the honours committee to “consider” taking it back, something which for deputy Labour leader Harriet Harman has backed.
The MP said: “These allegations cast a shadow over all the other people who proudly have CBE after their name.
“Someone like him who is in a position of power should not prey on women who just want to get a job in the film industry.”
And Stella Creasy, Labour MP for Walthamstow, also said he should join people like Rolf Harris in being stripped of their titles.
She added: “I don’t think those who abuse their power should be acknowledged as role models.”
This morning the film producer has been dismissed from the Weinstein Company this morning after the harassment claims.
Actress Meryl Streep is hit out at his alleged behaviour, saying: "The disgraceful news about Harvey Weinstein has appalled those of us whose work he championed, and those whose good and worthy causes he supported."
