Richard Tice, the deputy leader of Reform UK, faced a barrage of criticism during his appearance on BBC Question Time for disputing Donald Trump’s assertion that autism is connected to the use of paracetamol during pregnancy. The show, hosted by Fiona Bruce in Bedworth, Warwickshire, featured a panel consisting of Lisa Nandy MP, Luke Evans MP, Munira Wilson MP, musician Billy Bragg, and Richard Tice.

The discussion initially focused on digital ID cards before shifting to Donald Trump’s controversial remarks on autism. When an audience member raised the question of politicians’ role in addressing unverified claims, MP Luke Evans, a former doctor, emphasized that current scientific evidence does not support any link between paracetamol and autism. Richard Tice concurred with Evans and expressed confusion over Trump’s statements, ultimately concluding that the former president was likely mistaken.

As the conversation unfolded, Munira Wilson condemned Trump’s assertions as “dangerous scientific nonsense,” while Lisa Nandy labeled them as “dangerous nonsense.” Nandy also addressed a heckler during the debate, defending her colleagues and asserting that their intentions in politics were to improve people’s lives.

The episode concluded with a preview of next week’s BBC Question Time, scheduled to return on October 2 in Belfast.