Peterborough Council Leader Quits Over ‘White Trash’ Grooming Gang Slur
The leader of Peterborough City Council, Labour’s Cllr Dennis Jones, has resigned after explosive private messages surfaced showing him calling grooming gang victims “poor white trash.” The fallout came swiftly on Wednesday as outrage grew over the offensive language tied to the ongoing grooming scandal in Rotherham and beyond.
Damning Messages Exposed by Former Labour Councillor
It was ex-Labour councillor Daisy Blakemore-Creedon who blew the whistle. She shared private texts where Jones allegedly used the vile term in response to her criticisms of immigration and women’s safety. In one message, Jones reportedly said:
“Oh so white British cops f***ing poor white trash in 1 is OK, is it? Get a f***ing grip Daisy. You are aiming for populist votes and attention.”
Daisy, who left Labour earlier this year citing bullying, condemned Jones for “offensive slurs” that politicise the suffering of abuse victims.
Council and Labour Party Respond
Peterborough City Council confirmed Jones’ immediate resignation, announcing an Extraordinary Full Council meeting to find a new leader. Jones will remain a councillor but as an independent. A Labour Party spokesperson stated:
“Swift action has been taken, in line with our rules and procedures. We cannot comment further while an investigation is ongoing.”
Opposition Hits Out at ‘Deeply Offensive’ Remarks
Conservative group leader Cllr Wayne Fitzgerald slammed Jones’ comments as “deeply offensive and unacceptable.” He demanded urgent explanation or immediate resignation and called on Labour to answer serious questions about the scandal.
Daisy Blakemore-Creedon Blasts ‘Classist’ Language
- “The phrase ‘white trash’ dismisses grooming gang victims as if their suffering is less worthy because of their background. That is completely unacceptable from a public figure.”
- “Instead of engaging, Jones became hostile, undermining open and respectful dialogue.”
What’s Next for Peterborough Council?
Jones stays on as an independent councillor, but Labour’s grip on Peterborough is shaky. The council now faces the challenge of restoring trust amid fierce scrutiny over how grooming gang cases continue to rock UK politics.
