Michael Dugher calls for Tory Spin Chief to apologise for behaviour which “demeans the office of Prime Minister

Top Downing Street spinner Craig Oliver has come under fire from Labour this evening, after accusing Labour of giving “succour” to the Assad regime. Michael Dugher has written to the Cabinet Secretary, calling on Oliver to apologise and withdraw his remarks:

Dear Sir Jeremy,

You will have noticed reports the Director of Government Communications Craig Oliver has described the Leader of Opposition as giving “succour to Assad”.

It is language which is infantile and irresponsible.

It follows a pattern of behaviour by 10 Downing Street through recent days which demeans the office of Prime Minister.

It is particularly disappointing given the serious nature of today’s debate and the fact that throughout the country people will be listening with great concern about events in Syria, some knowing their relatives could soon be involved in military action.

We ask that Mr Oliver apologises and withdraws the remark.

In view of the public interest in this matter we are releasing this letter to the media.

Yours sincerely

Michael Dugher