Investigation launched into Melton councillor who used racist phrase on social media

A Melton councillor who Tweeted a hashtag which has been used by members of a white supremacist group has denied he is a racist but has resigned from the ruling Conservative group on the borough council.
Councillor Simon Lumley, who represents the town's Newport Ward on Melton Borough Council EMN-200613-094944001Councillor Simon Lumley, who represents the town's Newport Ward on Melton Borough Council EMN-200613-094944001
Councillor Simon Lumley, who represents the town's Newport Ward on Melton Borough Council EMN-200613-094944001

Councillor Simon Lumley, who represents the town’s Newport Ward, posted the phrase #whitelivesmatter last week in response to protests against the death of black American George Floyd at the hands of police officers in Minnesota.

He said his post had been taken out of context when it was roundly condemned on social media with some asking for him to be removed from office.

But the council is now undertaking an investigation into the issue with leader, Councillor Joe Orson, announcing: “I am aware that a member of my group has Tweeted an inappropriate comment and whilst I am assured this was an act of naivety, it still represents completely unacceptable behaviour.

“This has been addressed with him in the strongest terms and as a result he has volunteered to resign from the ruling group with immediate effect, pending a full investigation, and has made a public apology.

“This matter has been taken very seriously.”

The council is now lighting its Parkside offices purple for the next week in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement and as a visible reminder of its ongoing commitment to support the fight against racism.

The authority said the hashtag used by Councillor Lumley does not represent the views of councillors or officers.

Councillor Joe Orson added: “As leader of the council I want to be clear that we completely condemn any form of racism and systemic oppression of black people, and that we fully support Black Lives Matter.

“The tragic death of George Floyd has shocked us all and is a reminder of the need to speak up and keep up the fight against racism, discrimination and inequality.

“We need to start challenging ourselves and asking what we can do better – I will be asking this of myself, council staff and councillors in the future.

“I want to encourage everyone, from any racial background to speak up and expose racism and I want to reassure everyone that as a council we will stand by you.”

For his part, Councillor Lumley has issued the following apology: “I am not a racist and I support Black Lives Matter.

“I am extremely sorry for my Tweet and apologise unreservedly for any offence I have caused.”