Ellie Ames 19 December 2024

Police called amid row at town hall

Police called amid row at town hall image
Image: Copyright Lawrey / Shutterstock.com

Police officers were called to Oldham Council on Wednesday after a meeting was suspended when a row broke out.

Local media reported that references were made to ‘dictators’ and ‘Nazi sympathisers’, and that a protest was also taking place outside the civic centre.

Greater Manchester Police received reports of a disturbance from a member of the public at around 5.30pm.

A spokesperson for the force said: ‘Police are currently investigating reports of racially aggravated public order and enquiries into this remain ongoing.’

The row began as councillors discussed pulling out of the Greater Manchester ‘Places for Everyone’ housing scheme, with members speaking over each other and mayor Zahid Chauhan having to call for ‘silence’.

Taking to X after the meeting, council leader Arooj Shah said: ‘The behaviour by some of the elected members at the meeting of the full council was a step too far.’

She added: ‘I would urge those disruptive members to reflect on their behaviour and remember that we are all there to serve the people of Oldham.

‘We were unable to do that because the meeting had to be abandoned. This is disrespectful, not just to their fellow councillors, but also to the residents we represent.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Performance and Data Officer

Kirklees Metropolitan Council
£Competitive
Good interpersonal, motivational and communication skills Kirklees, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Kirklees Metropolitan Council

Governance Lawyer - Braintree District Council

Essex County Council
£48945.0000 - £53082.0000 per annum
Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Victims Development Officer (Violence Against Women)

Royal Borough of Greenwich
PO1 - £39,855 - £42,324
We need a versatile and enthusiastic officer to improve services for victims of VAWG and modern slavery. Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich

Community Facilitator level 1

Royal Borough of Greenwich
Scale 5 - £31,524 to £32,931
We are seeking to fill a number of roles to help us deliver our new vision for Health and Adults Services (HAS) Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich

Personal Advisors

Royal Borough of Greenwich
£38,934 - £40,755
This is a rewarding, challenging and essential role, in our support of young people Leaving Care. Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich
Linkedin Banner