Local authority for Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, England
A Reform UK councillor in Sunderland has been charged under the Communications Act 2003 for a 2024 post referencing the Nigerian community. He is due to appear in South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on 21 August. The party says it is monitoring the verdict.
The Guardian and BBC report that Sunderland City Council, now led by Reform UK, has ended its 30-year partnership with Show Racism the Red Card, prompting criticism from opponents who say it undermines anti-racism education. Gary Bennett, former Sunderland captain, says the move disrupts local education and raises questions about the council’s stance on racism.