A council meeting in Blackburn descended into chaos after a Reform councillor allegedly farted into a microphone while a rival was speaking. The incident, dubbed 'fartgate', occurred during the Blackburn with Darwen Council Forum meeting on October 1, which was intended to update councillors and members on the past month's activities.
While Councillor Terri Mahmood, of BwD for Blackburn Central, was speaking, a loud flatulence sound was heard ripping from a microphone across the room. Several nearby councillors were visibly in hysterics after hearing the noise.
Blame pointed at Reform councillor
Fingers were pointed at Reform UK Blackburn South East councillor Andy Mahon, who attended the meeting wearing a distinctive leopard print fedora and matching tie paired with a safari jacket. Shortly after the incident, the meeting, which was scheduled to last four hours, paused for a break.
The meeting threatened to descend into further chaos as independent councillor Tasleem Fazal challenged Mahon's behaviour. Fazal said: "Whilst I have got the opportunity to speak, I would like to address something from earlier."
Councillor rebukes colleague's behaviour
Fazal continued: "Whilst I understand we are all elected members in here and we do get passionate members of public, I don't mind that because they are most likely not going to be back here next month or the month after."
"What I do take issue with is the decorum in here of late and especially this evening. I think as elected members we all respect one another's positions we are all here on merit, but I think we have to respect one another."
"I take issue with some of the noise levels and other silly comments being made when other members are speaking. But I will tell you what I really take issue with someone lifting their arse cheeks to the microphone in my direction blowing their arse out like we are at school."
Fazal added: "I am really worried about being hit by shrapnel if he gets in wrong and I really really think all the leaders of each party need to have a discussion outside of here and get this in order. Because I am not going to come here meeting after meeting putting up with childish behaviour it is not on."
Call for parties to address conduct
Mahon was seen raising his arm to request to speak. Fazal went on to say: "If someone has a problem or a digestive problem there is a bathroom at the end of the corridor, but we have got to be managing this kind of stuff."
Mahon and Blackburn with Darwen Council have been approached for comment.
