A newly elected Reform councillor has ignited controversy just days after his electoral victory, following remarks about “non white persons” in a public park. Ken Tranter, who secured a seat as a Hampshire County Councillor for Aldershot South, faced immediate condemnation from critics who labelled his language as “racist rhetoric”.
Background of the Controversy
After winning on 7 May, Mr Tranter stated his intention to demand police action concerning “non white persons taking over the Municipal Gardens and the strong pervading smell of cannabis”. Mr Tranter, an Army veteran with 29 years of service who reached the rank of Warrant Officer, previously served as Mayor of Dover between 2005 and 2006. He won his council seat with 1,590 votes, narrowly defeating Labour's Keith Dibble, who received 1,533 votes.
Social Media Post and Reaction
Following his victory, Mr Tranter posted on social media: “Someone on an Aldershot Facebook site was concerned about non white persons taking over the Municipal Gardens and the strong pervading smell of canabis [sic]. I promised, if elected I would speak to the police which I did. Their response was to say 'they were aware'. I don't want them to be aware, I want them to stop it and return the park to family use. Therefore I will write to the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and demand action. Ken Tranter.”
The post drew a flood of accusations, with many accusing him of using “horrifying” racist language. In response, Mr Tranter apologised for his “poor use of words”, stating: “Admitted poor use of language, and I certainly abhor racism in all its forms.” He did not elaborate on the meaning behind his original comments.
Condemnation from Community Groups and Officials
Rushmoor Stand Up To Racism called out Mr Tranter, saying: “This is racist rhetoric plain and simple Ken Tranter. Can you explain why you used those words? And do you condemn racism?” Labour borough councillor for Rushmoor, Gaynor Austin, described the comment as disgraceful, adding: “As councillors, it's our responsibility to serve all residents. How can he be trusted to do this with this attitude?”
Aldershot resident Kate Turner, a 40-year-old charity worker, expressed shock: “It is horrifying to see an elected official calling for segregated public spaces. The fact that the new Reform councillor thinks that this language is not only acceptable but that the police should be enforcing his racist ideology is a serious warning about the rise of hateful politics. He is meant to represent all of his constituents, not just the people who voted for him, and it shows how little he knows about Aldershot and the vibrant mix of people who live here.”
Official Response
A spokesperson for Hampshire County Council said: “We take any complaints against members very seriously and any that we may receive would be dealt with in accordance with the council's arrangements for dealing with complaints against members.” Reform UK and the chair of Reform UK Aldershot have been asked to comment but have not yet responded.
