Mick Jagger has pulled out of an event at this year’s annual meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland after accusing David Cameron of attempting to use him as a “political football”.
Jagger was due to appear at an event hosted by Cameron intended to promote Britain. Other public figures involved include inventor of the internet Tim Berners-Lee and model Lily Cole. Following the announcement of his involvement, some media coverage suggested that Jagger was confirming a political allegiance to the Conservative Party.
However, in a statement issued on Tuesday, Jagger said: “During my career I have always eschewed party politics and came to Davos as a guest, as I thought it would be stimulating. I have always been interested in economics and world events. I now find myself being used as a political football and there has been a lot of comment about my political allegiances which are inaccurate. I think it’s best I decline the invitation to the key event and curtail my visit”.
A Downing Street source told The Guardian: “Clearly we are disappointed that Sir Mick doesn’t feel he can support a non-political event that promotes Britain. At no point was there ever any suggestion that Sir Mick was a Conservative. He understandably wishes to remain apolitical. This is not a political event. This is simply an event that promotes British creativity abroad”.
Sections: Pop Politics | Tags: David Cameron, Mick Jagger
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