Labour councillor slams ‘unacceptable’ homophobic slur made by Conservative candidate
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An investigation is underway after a Conservative Party candidate used a homophobic slur against a Labour councillor on social media. Michael Payne, the deputy leader of Gedling Borough Council in Nottinghamshire, called the comment “unacceptable” and “outdated.” The incident took place during a social media discussion on Tuesday, and the comment was made by Keith Seaton, who ran as a Conservative candidate in the borough council election last May.
Payne was alerted to Seaton’s comment by a Gedling resident and took to Twitter to express his outrage. He stated, “When you wake up to an ugly, offensive, and despicable homophobic attack on you by a Gedling Tories council candidate and activist, it makes you even more determined to stand up for the values of decency, equality, respect, and compassion in society.”
Furthermore, Payne emphasized that this was not a slip of the tongue but an open and outright personal attack on social media by someone in a senior position. He urged people to challenge him on his politics but not to attack him for his personal life.
The incident has caused widespread outrage, including from Payne’s husband, Councillor Kyle Robinson-Payne. He tweeted his shock at the homophobic slur and criticized Tom Randall MP for associating with Keith Seaton despite concerns raised by residents about his character.
Following the incident, Seaton has been suspended from the Conservative Party and a formal investigation is underway. Gedling Conservatives released a statement apologizing to Payne and others who may have been affected by the controversy. They stated, “This is unacceptable and we are sorry that you – and others – have had to read this. The member involved in this has been suspended from the party, and the matter is being investigated by central office. Our party stands against all forms of discrimination and is open to all.”
Seaton himself has issued a public apology, acknowledging that online debates can become heated but expressing regret for the language he used. He claimed that the comment was not directed at any individual or group and apologized for any offense caused.
While it is positive that Seaton has been suspended from the Conservative Party, Payne questioned whether this suspension would be permanent. The incident raises concerns about the party’s commitment to inclusivity and equality, particularly considering Seaton’s previous role as a council candidate.
Homophobic slurs have no place in politics or society, and it is vital that all political parties take a firm stance against discrimination. The incident serves as a reminder of the work still needed to combat homophobia and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, are treated with respect and dignity.
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