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'Absolutely shameful': Politician's flag-waving photo with Archie Battersbee and family sparks outrage

Anna Firth, MP for Southend West, visited Archie in June and posed with a Union Jack

LONDON, ENGLAND: Anna Firth, MP for Southend West, has found herself in hot water as a result of her picture with Archie Battersbee, who died on Saturday, August 6, after his life support was withdrawn by the doctors.

The picture that sparked controversy was reportedly taken at the start of June. In the picture, Firth can be seen standing by Archie Battersbee’s hospital bed while holding a Union Jack, and a ‘Jubilee Certificate’ celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s 70-year reign. The critics, however, raised fingers and accused her of ‘inappropriate behavior’.

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Blasting the politician, a social media user wrote, “I had to check this wasn’t photoshop and false news. I’m afraid it isn’t it’s just the most inappropriate, publicity-seeking, ghoulish, and in bad taste behavior by an MP I’ve ever seen. Surely @Anna_Firth this must have occurred to you”. Another said, “Absolutely shameful - what has happened to discreet compassionate privacy- I’m shocked. rest in dignified peace young man - I hope your family are able to grieve in private xxx.”

Calling the photo-op disgusting, one user tweeted, “Sadly the cheerleaders didn't realize why they were being co-opted. But thanks to the tattle style threads we do now.” Another said, “I've just seen what to me is the most tasteless photo ever on Twitter. It's a smiling @Anna_Firth MP posing at the bedside of Archie Battersbee along with his mother. It was taken during the jubilee celebrations so it features a photo of the Queen & a Union Jack.”

The 12-year-old UK boy suffered a catastrophic brain injury in April 2022 and was declared brain dead by medical experts. His parents fought a bitter legal battle to keep his life support switched on. Sadly, a decision was made to end Archie’s life on Saturday. His death sparked a fierce international debate and brought Firth under fire.

However, in contrast to public reaction, Archie’s family is seeing things differently. His mother Hollie Dance appreciated the visit and gave a positive review of the MP to local media on June 2. “What a lovely visit from Southend’s MP Anna Firth. Genuinely interested in Archie’s condition and day-to-day care. She even had a little chat with him along with her chaperone Richard. Anna brought Archie a Jubilee certificate and flag so he doesn’t miss out on the celebrations.” Hollie said.

While the public is disagreeing with the politician's behavior, it seems like Firth genuinely tried to build a connection with Archie and his family. Paying her last respects, she wrote on Twitter, “Very sad news that #ArchieBattersbee has died and all my thoughts and prayers are with Hollie and the family. Thank you to all the nurses & Doctors in the NHS who looked after him until the end. 💔🙏🏻🌹”