Jeremy Hunt criticised for 'gloating' tweet as he remains as Health Secretary

Staying in his job: Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt
PA
Chloe Chaplain14 July 2016
WEST END FINAL

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Jeremy Hunt was accused of sending a "smug" tweet after keeping his job has Health Secretary under Theresa May.

The minister had been widely rumoured as being set to join a host of big names for the chop as the new Prime Minister unveiled her new-look Cabinet.

But after it was announced he would stay in post, Mr Hunt sent a tweet in which he quoted US literary giant Mark Twain.

“’Reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated.’ Thrilled to be back in the best job in Government," Mr Hunt posted.

But his message sparked anger among Twitter users.

Some accused him of “gloating” and called on him to “do the right thing and resign”, with one adding “everyone hates you Jeremy”.

Junior Doctors have vented their frustration across social media, arguing that by staying in the post Mr Hunt will "continue decimating the health service" and "you're the only person thrilled, everyone else is devastated".

One doctor wrote: "Only because no one else wanted to do it. You still don't have the confidence - or the support - of NHS staff or patients."

Mr Hunt announced on July 6 that the controversial new junior doctors' contract would be imposed despite members of the BMA union rejecting it after a bitte row.

Former Tory MP Louise Mensch added to the online outrage as she expressed her support for the Prime Minister's decision.

In response a Green Party politician, Jonathan Bartley, tweeting from his son's hospital bedside in support of Mr Hunt's removal, she wrote: “Well scumbag enjoy the fact you were wrong you loathsome tit. Jeremy is staying.”

The controversial politician and columnist has been labelled "vile", "the lowest of the low" and been accused of "abusing" Mr Bartley, who was waiting in hospital for his son's operation.

She reponded to criticism saying: "I don't need to 'justify' myself I just repeated it. Awesome to see Hunt haters crying into their beers."

Green Party leader Natalie Bennett was one of many to criticise Ms Mensch's attitide responding: "You're talking about NHS nurses, doctors, other professionals, on whom we depend. Let's treat them with respect."

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