Reform UK defends councillor’s controversial comments on immigration
Reform UK has come to the defence of Kirklees councillor Tracy Clayton, who reportedly made inflammatory remarks on social media, suggesting immigrants are “third world animals” and expressing indifference to being labelled a “far right racist”, reports BritPanorama.
Clayton’s posts, which emerged last week, drew criticism from several Labour MPs who are urging their party to respond. The comments were described as derogatory, with Clayton referring to immigrants as “invaders” and making disparaging remarks about specific cultural practices.
In her defence, Reform’s council leader Sarah Wood stated that Clayton “raises an important point”, with the party asserting that many would “sympathise” with her views. They contested the notion that Clayton’s comments equated all immigrants with criminality, clarifying that her remarks were specifically directed at individuals engaging in criminal acts.
Clayton, newly elected to represent the Colne Valley West ward in May, stated: “I’m away in Greece, I go to Greece a lot, why because no invaders, not since the Greek government stood up and said no. (it is an invasion just like Nigel Farage and Tommy Robinson said over 15 years ago) no one raiding shops, no gang rapes on the beach, no Sharia Courts, no man marrying a child! Just normal (not 3rd world animals) HOW I MISS THAT ABOUT MY HOME LAND. If that makes me a far right racist, well you know what I don’t care!”
Following her statements, Wood faced backlash during a cabinet meeting, particularly for failing to condemn Clayton’s comments. Wood defended her position by acknowledging that the language used might exceed her own standards but maintained that many see the current immigration situation as an “invasion”.
Responses from community representatives have been strong. Independent councillor Akhtar Kasia expressed his disappointment at the rhetoric, which he believes further alienates members of the community, particularly immigrants. He noted the fear among constituents, stating, “people are worried that when you have a council leader with this particular view, it is going to impact them and the community as well. It is a worrying time for us.”
Labour MPs, including Kim Leadbeater and Jade Botterill, have collectively denounced the remarks. They stated, “These comments are profoundly offensive, dehumanising, and unacceptable with holding elected office,” emphasising the need for language that respects all individuals irrespective of their background.
As the situation develops, the responses from both the party and community leaders reflect deep divisions over immigration discourse and the implications of such rhetoric for local governance and community relations.
