Vice chair to undertake civility and respect training
Outcome follows complaints about offensive remarks at International Women’s Day event
The vice chairman of West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), Cllr Peter York, has been directed to undergo civility and respect training after a complaints process found his comments about women likely breached the authority’s Code of Conduct. York's remarks at a council event in Northampton, which included saying that “some women should have never left the kitchen,” were deemed inappropriate and capable of causing offence.
Prompted by the Northants Women’s Empowerment Group (NWEG), a formal standards complaint was submitted, criticizing York’s comments as “deeply offensive and sexist.” The group requested an investigation to determine if his comments contravened the councillor Code of Conduct regarding respect and the council's reputation.
An initial assessment by WNC, reviewed by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), indicated a probable breach of the Code, suggesting it can be remedied through training and provided by the Deputy Monitoring Officer. The consideration included York’s prior apology and consultation with an Independent Person.
CEO of NWEG, Hannah Martin, welcomed the move to mandate training but expressed ongoing concerns about York’s potential elevation to chairman at the next council meeting in May. Martin highlighted the importance of the Chair’s role in representing all residents with dignity and respect, raising alarm over York's suitability.
Martin’s letter to the monitoring officer questioned if York is an appropriate candidate for the chairmanship, with concerns over the message this would convey to the community. Calls for Reform UK to evaluate York's suitability for the prestigious civic role remain.
As of now, Cllr York has been contacted for comment regarding his participation in the recommended training. Meanwhile, a response from Mark Arnull, Reform UK leader at WNC, regarding York’s potential position as chairman is yet pending.