The slogan “If I can’t dance, I don’t want to be part of your revolution” holds new meaning in a world where an MP simply singing along to Robyn is labelled a sign of national decline. A tweet celebrating a Saturday night in my own constituency has now been viewed by almost 1 million people – and many more have offered an opinion. Egged on by political opponents and the presenters of GB News, these have included death threats, vile commentary on my appearance and accusations that I’m not fit for office, all because I went to a silent disco.

Such a barrage is wearing and worrying in equal amounts – but such attacks are not unique to me, nor are they accidental. Joy is now seen as something that should shame politicians – as though having frazzled and miserable people in our parliament is good for decision-making. Underlying this is more than just embarrassment about seeing a middle-aged MP dance, it’s a concerted attempt by some to drown out their opponents’ voices through character assassination.

Concern over the character and competence of MPs is not new or, sadly, unmerited. From Hogarth onwards, politicians have always been subject to righteous scepticism and recent scandals have only confirmed the vetting shortcomings of political parties. What is new is how some in office are leaning into aggression and the idea that those who disagree with you are a personal........

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