Warwickshire County Council leader George Finch is facing a code of conduct probe after demanding books containing "contested gender ideology" be removed from libraries. The Reform UK politician, Britain's youngest council leader at 19, said libraries should "not seek to embolden political ideologies" that are "highly charged and polarising."
Complaint Filed by Warwickshire Pride
Warwickshire Pride has submitted a formal complaint against Finch, arguing his comments "further marginalised" the LGBT+ community. The group stated: "The suggestion that books or resources acknowledging LGBTQ+ people somehow undermine neutrality is both misleading and dangerous."
Finch's Stance on Library Neutrality
Finch told BBC Coventry and Warwickshire Radio he was not referring to books about sexuality but those on transgender issues, though he refused to name specific titles. He said: "Kids should be taught how to be good people, not if they want to be a boy or a girl." He also echoed Reform councillors in Essex, saying books on "Black Lives Matter shouldn't have their own stand."
Finch's administration plans a "comprehensive policy" for all council-owned public spaces, ensuring material on sex, gender, or identity is presented "in an age-appropriate and responsible way." He added: "Libraries should be politically neutral, family-friendly, and not seek to embolden political ideologies."
Previous Breach of Conduct
This complaint follows an independent investigation finding Finch breached the code of conduct over public comments that could have jeopardised a child rape case. He has the right to challenge that verdict.
Political Reactions
The Liberal Democrat group expressed concern, with leader Councillor Sarah Boad stating they would "not let Warwickshire go backwards." Labour MP Rachel Taylor criticised Finch, saying: "George Finch is too young to remember that Section 28 started with censorship in libraries." Section 28, in place from 1988 to 2003, banned promotion of homosexuality by councils and schools.
Out Out Groups UK called Finch's statement a "political attack," emphasising that libraries exist to provide access to information, not to erase people. Warwickshire County Council declined to comment, describing it as a political matter.
