Reform UK suspend county councillor after complaint

Robert Ford is the Reform UK councillor for Maidstone Rural West

Reform UK has suspended a Kent county councillor over what it calls an "unofficial complaint" from several female members of staff.

Robert Ford was elected to represent Maidstone Rural West in May's local elections and will now sit as an independent until investigations into the allegations are complete.

Speaking to the BBC, Ford said: "It is a surprise to hear that any female members of staff have made a complaint."

A statement from Reform UK said: "Despite being offered a meeting with the whip to discuss the complaints, councillor Ford has refused to engage with the process."

Ford said he would be "looking to take legal action against those complaining", adding: "They are a slur on my character."

Speaking about his fellow Reform UK councillors, Ford added: "Colleagues at Kent County Council are working hard and are a good bunch of people."

A spokesperson for Reform UK said the matter had now "escalated into a disciplinary matter".

Antony Hook, the leader of the Liberal Democrat opposition, said he would write to the leader of Reform UK to ask for a "full explanation".

"Councillors and other elected officeholders have a duty to uphold the highest standards of behaviour, and it's suggested that's not what's happened here," he said.

"The public are entitled to know. There needs to be a thorough and independent investigation and steps taken to make sure there are no further incidents."