Sunderland Reform member suspended over racist comments

The suspension follows allegations of racist comments made online, with Glenn Gibbins, who was elected to Sunderland City Council, accused of saying that the Nigerian population in Sunderland should be melted down to “fill in potholes”.

The comment, reportedly posted in March 2024 and since deleted, came to light following a report by campaign group Hope Not Hate.

On Monday evening, May 11, a Reform UK spokesperson confirmed that Mr Gibbins had been suspended from the party pending an investigation.

Reform UK gained control of Sunderland City Council in last week’s election, winning 58 seats.

Darren Grimes, deputy leader of Durham County Council, previously described the situation as “a failure of the vetting process” during an appearance on BBC’s Politics North.

Sunderland City Council has since confirmed that Mr Gibbins has not yet formally accepted office (as of 3pm on Wednesday, May 13).

A council spokesperson said: “Newly-elected councillors are required to formally accept office and comply with a code of conduct which sets out standards of behaviour.

“Any alleged breaches of this code are considered in accordance with procedures agreed by the City Council’s Standards Committee.

“The code applies to councillors when they are acting in their official capacity.”

Meanwhile, Chris Eynon, the new member for Redhouse ward, is expected to become leader of the council after being elected leader of the Reform UK group in Sunderland.

Mr Eynon said: “It is a tremendous honour to have been elected by my colleagues to lead the Reform UK group following these historic local elections.”

“I look forward to leading our teams as we work tirelessly on behalf of residents across Sunderland and begin a new chapter for our city.”