The Kirklees Independents Group has called for a full investigation into alleged social media posts attributed to Reform UK councillor Eric Butterworth, describing the claims as “deeply troubling” and warning they risk damaging community cohesion.
The group issued a statement after screenshots of alleged posts were widely circulated online. The posts have been described by some residents as racist and Islamophobic, although their authenticity has not been independently verified.
In a statement, Kirklees Independents leader Cllr Habiban Zaman said the allegations had caused “considerable concern” across the borough. She said: “The allegations surrounding these social media posts are deeply troubling and have understandably caused considerable concern amongst residents across Kirklees.
“If these posts are genuine, they appear to go well beyond the bounds of legitimate political debate or freedom of expression. Comments that target people on the basis of their faith, ethnicity or background have no place in public life and risk undermining the community cohesion that so many people work hard to build and protect.”
Cllr Zaman said Kirklees was a diverse borough where people from different faiths, cultures and backgrounds lived and worked together, adding that elected representatives were expected to uphold high standards of conduct.
She said: “Any language that appears to promote prejudice, hostility or exclusion towards an entire community is unacceptable. Such allegations cannot simply be ignored and should be subject to a full and transparent investigation by the appropriate authorities.”
The group said the same standards should apply regardless of political affiliation or which community was affected.
“The same standards must apply regardless of who is involved or which community is affected. Racism, Islamophobia, antisemitism and all forms of discrimination should be challenged wherever they arise,” Cllr Zaman added.
The Kirklees Independents said public confidence could only be maintained if serious allegations involving elected representatives were properly investigated and, where appropriate, acted upon.
The group has called for the allegations to be investigated thoroughly and for any findings to be dealt with in accordance with the standards expected of those holding public office.
The statement follows earlier reports concerning the alleged social media activity attributed to Councillor Butterworth. At the time of publication, no outcome of any formal investigation has been announced.
