The trial and conviction of Mick Philpott for the manslaughter of six of his children this week has shocked the nation.
Philpott was given a life sentence for deliberately starting a fire at his home in Derby that claimed their lives, in a plot to frame his former mistress during a custody battle.
His wife Mairead and another accomplice, Paul Mosley, were both jailed for 17 years for their part.
It was revealed that the jobless Philpott was claiming thousands of pounds in benefits for his children, among other things.
Chancellor George Osborne yesterday questioned the welfare state’s contribution to people like Philpott.
MM took to the streets to ask:
Do you think George Osborne was right linking the tragic death of six children in the Philpott case to the debate over benefits?
| Options | Results |
| Yes | 25% |
| No | 75% |
Marie-Claire Daly, 32, an assessor from Northenden was frank in her summary of the comments, and said: “The man’s an idiot!”
Susan Clarke, a 60-year-old bank clerk from Droylsden, said: “Whether he was on benefits or not he is the sort of person who would have done what he did regardless.”
Teacher Daniel Pinizzotto, 24, from the city centre, said: “I feel it is too generalised to say that. You have to look into everything.”
Martin Ruffles, a 61-year-old consultant from Congleton, suggested that in Mick Philpott’s case the link could be made, but added: “You can’t make a general assumption.”
Rick Farrington, 28, a decorator from Marple, said: “Philpott was just a messed up person so you can’t really justify saying that. Anyone capable of these crimes has to have something wrong with them.”
Patricia Pannone, a 69-year-old JP from Didsbury, said: “He is arguing from the particular to the general. It’s just a political statement.”
Maria Sozos, 72, who is retired from Crumpsall, agreed with the Chancellor and said: “The whole welfare system is in such a mess, and leave lot to be desired. It should be more children focused. If people see something going on they should act.”
Peter Whitley, an 18-year-old coffee shop worker from Irlam, said: “You’re going to get most people from that walk of life who would commit crimes like that.”
Kate Oakley, 35, a shop assistant from Trafford, said: “He’s trying to turn people against each other. The fact he is on benefits has no relevance whatsoever. It’s a ridiculous thing to say.”
Paul Hewitt, a 20-year-old assistant bar manager from Macclesfield, said: “I haven’t read much into it but it is a factor.”
Picture courtesy of AllTogertherFool via Flickr, with thanks.
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