Staffordshire council leader quits after social media probe

A council leader whose membership of Reform UK was revoked after an investigation into his social media use has resigned.

Ian Cooper took charge of Staffordshire County Council after May’s local elections, when his party won control from the Conservatives.

Although he has quit as leader, Cooper will remain an independent councillor in Tamworth.

Posts at the centre of complaints about him included one making reference to then foreign secretary David Lammy, which stated “no foreign national or first generation migrant should be allowed to sit in Parliament”.

Martin Murray, who was Cooper’s deputy, will assume the role of leader on an interim basis.

It is expected that the authority will choose a new permanent leader at a full council meeting in the new year.

“I recognise that these are challenging circumstances and the strength of feeling surrounding recent events,” Murray said.

“Let me assure you that my commitment to deliver plans for a better Staffordshire remains absolute, and to represent all residents fairly and with respect.

“My first and foremost priority is to ensure that Staffordshire County Council services continue without hinderance and to showcase Staffordshire as a fantastic county to live, visit and invest.”

A spokesperson for the Conservative opposition on the council said: “Ian Cooper’s resignation on its own does nothing to address the issues with racism and bigotry in Reform’s Staffordshire branch.

“The new interim leader Martin Murray must clear out any other councillors with similar views, starting with Peter Mason.”