Tynemouth councillor Tom Bailey has been suspended by the Labour Party pending investigations after allegedly sharing an image of him holding what appears to be a firearm in a WhatsApp group.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) understands Coun Bailey is being investigated by North Tyneside's ruling party over a post he is claimed to have published in a WhatsApp group containing 1,500 volunteers who have been clearing plastic pellets from North East beaches.
In recent weeks, Coun Bailey has been a high-profile campaigner and volunteer beach cleaner since tiny plastic nurdles began washing up on the coast following a shipping collision at the Port of Tyne on Sunday, July 19.
Image and alleged message
The post features a picture of placards which contains an image of Coun Bailey appearing to be holding a gun. Other firearms and an axe appear to be displayed in the background.
The post is accompanied by words from an account named Tom Bailey, stating: "I'm undecided on whether to ever use these signs. Ordered after a few drinks while on holiday. No intention to actually take firearms onto the beach. Have calmed down a bit since the other week [sic]. But go easy on stepping on the nurdles to be on the safe side."
The alleged post has also prompted a council standards complaint and referral to police by Tory councillor Lewis Bartoli. Northumbria Police has stated it is aware of the report.
Councillor's response
Coun Bartoli says the post in question was raised with him by a "disturbed" member of the public and the matter should not be dismissed as a "joke".
The Tynemouth representative said: "A Tynemouth resident who saw the material was sufficiently disturbed to contact us and ask for the matter to be formally raised. Their concern should not simply be dismissed as a joke.
"This is not about political disagreement or his campaigning over the nurdle spill. It is about the judgment and standards expected of an elected representative.
"Given the apparent presence of firearms and other weapons, we have also contacted the police. Councillor Bailey now needs to explain how he believed this was appropriate conduct for a councillor and reflect very carefully on whether he has demonstrated the judgement required to continue representing the public.
"In my view, he should seriously consider his position."
It is understood Coun Bailey has been suspended by the Labour Party pending investigations. Labour stated it did not comment on individual disciplinary proceedings. Coun Bailey declined to comment when approached by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Mayor's statement
North Tyneside's Labour Mayor Karen Clark confirmed a formal complaint has been lodged with the council. She said: "At a time when politics is increasingly divisive, there is a particular responsibility on those of us who hold elected office to behave responsibly and appropriately. We all need to think carefully about our words, actions and the example we set.
"A formal complaint has been submitted, and I understand the matter has also been referred to the police. I have referred the matter to the national Labour Party for their consideration. It would not be appropriate for me to comment further while those processes are ongoing.
"As elected Mayor, I expect high standards from everyone in public life, including members of my own party. We should be working to lower the temperature of political debate and demonstrate the judgment and responsibility the public rightly expects from us."
This is the second Labour suspension known to the LDRS this week, following revelations that Chirton and Percy councillor Rebecca O'Keefe has been suspended for what she believes to be her opposition to the closure of the outdoor education centre High Borrans.
