A Reform UK councillor elected in May has resigned from his post on South Tyneside Council, claiming the role was 'mis-sold' to him. Alex Clarke, who represented the Harton ward, said he had been given to understand he would only need to attend six meetings a year, but was overwhelmed by the reality of the position after the election.
Clarke's resignation comes after he was scrutinised for allegedly making antisemitic comments about England footballer Djed Spence and sexist remarks on a podcast he co-hosts with his partner. The councillor claimed he had raised concerns with Reform about not having enough time for councillor responsibilities before the election, but was reassured he would only have to attend six meetings per year.
Clarke said he sent an email to the person he believed would process his departure from the council, but was asked to stay on by Reform members. He claimed he was never told the 'official way to resign' and had been misled about the councillor role.
A spokesperson for Reform said preparations are now under way to contest the upcoming by-election in the Harton ward, so that the people of Harton can elect a strong Reform UK representative.
Following Clarke's resignation, a local authority spokesperson said a vacancy in the Harton ward would be declared 'in due course'. The council expects all elected members to maintain high standards of conduct, both in public office and in their interactions with others.