A Merton councillor has resigned from Labour over the party’s stance on the war in Gaza.
In a statement, Merton Council said Caroline Charles had resigned from the Labour Party and the Merton Labour Group, but would continue to serve her ward as an independent.
The south London authority said Cllr Charles’ resignation came after it was notified that she had been suspended from the national Labour Party ‘pending the outcome of a confidential investigation’, the nature of which had not been disclosed to the council.
Cllr Charles told the BBC: ‘I have resigned from the party over their stance on the war in Palestine and their refusal to call for a ceasefire.’
She has also said in a post on X (formerly Twitter): ‘There's a real witch hunt going on. No debate or alternative views allowed. Strict adherence to Party line or you're out.
‘My conscience does not allow me to remain silent, meaning I had no choice but to resign. My dedication to serving residents will continue.’
