Council staff and residents in Leicestershire are still waiting for action a week after a senior Reform UK councillor was accused of making offensive comments during a council training session, says UNISON today (Thursday).
Cllr Carl Abbott, cabinet member for adult social care, questioned whether Muslim children being taught to pray in schools could lead to radicalisation and an increase in crime.
The remarks were made during counterterrorism and safeguarding training delivered by the council and the police. Cllr Abbott has not publicly apologised and council leader Dan Harrison has not said whether any investigation or action will follow.
UNISON says the comments are outdated and offensive in a diverse county with a long and proud history of multiculturalism, where Muslims play a vital role in local life.
The union says people who rely on public services, and the staff who deliver them, deserve leaders who treat every community with respect.
UNISON East Midlands regional organiser Liz Lowe said: “These comments are utterly incompatible with holding responsibility for adult social care and safeguarding.
“The council leader must say whether these remarks were acceptable and what action will be taken.”
UNISON Leicestershire County branch secretary Dionne Royston said: “In a county as diverse as Leicestershire, these remarks are offensive and out of date.
“Muslim residents and council staff deserve to know they are respected by those in charge of vital services.”
