TOWIE’s James Lock Accuses Priti Patel Of ‘Inciting Hate’ Against Influencers In Dubai

TOWIE star James Lock has accused home secretary Priti Patel of "inciting hate" towards social media influencers currently in Dubai.

Lockie, 34, said he has been "bombarded with vile abuse" including death threats, after travelling to Dubai a few months ago.

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Speaking to The Sun, the reality star said: "We have had death threats. People have said 'I hope you get Covid and die', they've said 'I hope your family gets Covid and dies'. The hate has increased one hundred per cent after what Priti Patel said in the House of Commons.

"I think it is disgusting she has tried to use influencers as a scapegoat. It is embarrassing the government are trying to pass the blame. She has basically incited hate. We've been bombarded with hate and death threats ever since then. It's increased tenfold. It's been crazy."

James Lock/Instagram)

Addressing the House of Commons last month, Priti Patel said that "people should simply not be travelling".

"Even at St Pancras, people have been turning up with their skis," she said. "That is clearly not acceptable.

"We see plenty of influencers on social media showing off about which parts of the world that they are in, mainly in sunny parts of the world.

"Going on holiday is not an exemption and it's important that people stay at home."

James - who reportedly split from girlfriend and fellow TOWIE star Yaz Oukhellou, 27, last week - maintains that he is in Dubai for work purposes.

James Lock/Instagram)

On 23rd December, he posted a snap of him and Yaz, captioned: "So we are off to Dubai some amazing opportunities have come up! Watch this space 2021!!"

Explaining the pair flew out before lockdown, he added to The Sun: "I understand some influencers have just been out partying but I've been working every day to make money. Why would I go home to a lockdown when I can stay here, protect my mental health, earn money and provide for my family?"

Lockie maintained that he is not "taking it lightly" adding that his own family have suffered a personal tragedy with Covid-19.

From Monday 15th February, Brits arriving in the UK from 'red list' countries - including Dubai - will be forced to quarantine in a government approved hotel for 10 days.

Topics: TOWIE, Celebrity News, Coronavirus

Lucy Devine

Lucy is a journalist working for Tyla. After graduating with a master's degree in journalism, she has worked in both print and online and is particularly interested in fashion, food, health and women's issues. Northerner, coffee addict, says hun a lot. Get in touch at [email protected].

@lucedevine