Racism and intimidation must play no part in local public services says UNISON today (Wednesday), following the resignation of a North Northamptonshire councillor who targeted neighbours with vile abuse because of their heritage.
Robert Bloom, who represented Lloyds and Corby Old Village for Reform UK, quit little over four months since winning a seat in May’s local elections. His departure now means council tax payers will be left to foot a £27,000 by-election bill to fill the vacancy.
Mr Bloom’s resignation followed allegations reported by local media he used racial slurs against a Black family, threatened to involve far-right extremists, and abused his position as an elected representative by saying the family would not be treated fairly in their dealings with the council.
UNISON East Midlands regional secretary Chris Jenkinson said: “The ethos of public service must never discriminate on the basis of race or any other characteristic. Elected representatives are there to serve their communities, not intimidate or divide them.
“Reform UK has been sailing dangerously close to racist rhetoric in its attempts to sow division and hatred. It’s time the party acknowledged this, took responsibility and began removing those who promote racism from its ranks.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy.
