Makerfield constituency MP Josh Simons said such behaviour ‘does not represent’ the vast majority of Wiganers and called for ‘respect, decency, and humility’
An MP has said that a Wigan councillor was allegedly subjected to threats and followed while on the streets this week.
Makerfield MP, Labour’s Josh Simons, said a resident was also caught up in the incident, with both left ‘shaken up’ in the aftermath. Mr Simons has called for more ‘respect, decency, and humility’ surrounding political discourse in the borough.
He described Wiganers on the whole as ‘kind, brave and warm’ and said the ‘tiny minority’ who were abusive ‘do not represent us’.
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In a statement, Mr Simons, whose constituency covers Hindley and Hindley Green, Abram, Platt Bridge, Ashton, Bryn, Winstanley, Worsley Mesnes, Orrell and Pickley Green, said the incident occurred on Wednesday, January 28. He did not name the councillor involved in the alleged incident.
He said: “A local councillor was verbally abused, followed, and threatened while out in their community. A resident was also caught up in the incident and both are shaken up.”
He added: “I will not tolerate this. While politics can sometimes be fraught, this behaviour does not represent who we are. Wiganers are robust, honest, and don’t mince words, but kind, brave, and warm.
“Like me, your councillors are elected by you to represent and serve you. They work hard to be accessible, hosting events, showing up, picking up casework, and door knocking.
“That activity is what makes our democracy work. So, I want to be clear. For the tiny minority who are abusive, you do not represent us. You will never silence or intimidate anyone in my constituency who is chosen in free and fair elections – regardless of their party.”
Mr Simons said he did not care what political party someone is, who they vote for, or what they think about the issues of the day.
He added: “We all believe in respect, decency, and humility. Thank you to the many thousands who engage with their local representatives every week, who share their opinions, and get involved to make our community better.”