Cabinet minister David T.C. Davies faces a police investigation for an election leaflet allegedly using racist language to attack Labour’s plans to put a traveller site in his constituency. The Mail has more.
Complaints were made to both Gwent Police and the Equality and Human Rights Commission after David T.C. Davies, the Welsh Secretary, distributed a campaign leaflet about proposed housing sites for travellers.
The Conservative MP for Monmouth has been accused of using racist language in the leaflet, which was titled: “Gypsy and traveller site coming to your area soon!” In the document, he alleged that the Labour-controlled council is looking to build several traveller sites without enough public consultation.
He also wrote that the council is planning a short consultation “during the summer holiday period when many residents will be unable to participate”.
Locals were asked a number of questions including “Would you like to see a traveller site next to your house?” According to the Times, police have confirmed they are looking into the leaflet.
Detective Inspector Steve Thomas said: “Officers are reviewing the content of the leaflet and its impact on the gypsy and traveller and settled communities in Monmouthshire.
“We take any allegation of discrimination extremely seriously and we’re committed to ensuring our communities are safe places and welcoming for all.” The charity Travelling Ahead, which works with gypsies and travellers, said the MP was carrying out “dog-whistle actions intended to create a hostile environment”.
Worth reading in full.
Stop Press: Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden has leapt to David TC Davies’ defence, saying the leaflet sent by the Welsh Secretary to constituents was not racist.
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