THE DUP has distanced itself from Sammy Wilson after he described women who would choose to breastfeed in the House of Commons as exhibitionists.
The politician was responding to an independent review that said MPs should be allowed to breastfeed in the parliamentary chamber if they wish.
The East Antrim MP said it was not appropriate for breastfeeding to take place “under the glare of the cameras” and questioned women’s motives for wanting to do so.
“If you have somewhere else to go, why do you have to come into the House of Commons chamber, have it on film and everything else, when there is somewhere else?” he told BBC Radio Ulster’s Nolan Show.
“It’s voyeuristic if you have the opportunity to do it somewhere that is much more private away from the glare of the public, the cameras etc.
“For me anyone who chooses to do it in the chamber rather than the quietness of their office is doing it for reasons other than simply feeding the child.”
When Mr Wilson was questioned on whether he understood what ‘voyeurism’ means, he changed his description to exhibitionism.
The Oxford English dictionary definition of voyeurism is “gaining sexual pleasure from watching others when they are naked or engaged in sexual activity”.
Exhibitionism is defined as “extravagant behaviour that is intended to attract attention to oneself”.
A DUP spokesman said Mr Wilson’s comments represented a personal view.
“We recognise that the benefits of breastfeeding are well established, with a positive impact on both babies and mothers.
“It is vital we continue to promote breastfeeding and ensure adequate public awareness of its benefits.”
DUP assembly member Pam Cameron also tweeted her disapproval.
“For those asking, no I don’t agree with Sammy’s comments. Party & I recognise importance of breastfeeding.”
Ulster Unionist MLA Jo-Anne Dobson said Mr Wilson should withdraw his remarks.
“Breast feeding is natural and should be both encouraged and facilitated where practicable,” she said.
“Sammy Wilson needs to stop acting like a teenager giggling at the back of biology class and grow up.”
SDLP councillor Sharon Haughey also described the comments as “absolutely disgraceful” and “reckless”.
Research suggests breastfeeding provides many benefits to babies and mothers, lowering the risk of infections, diabetes and obesity in children, and the risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis in mothers.
Last month the Public Health Agency (PHA) in Northern Ireland encouraged mothers to share their positive stories during Breastfeeding Celebration Week.
Janet Calvert said Northern Ireland has the lowest breastfeeding rates in the UK and this is why “reassurance and encouragement from others is so important”.
So far more than 400 businesses, council facilities and tourist attractions have signed up to the PHA’s ‘Breastfeeding Welcome Here’ scheme, including Parliament Buildings on the Stormont estate.
