The Reform UK leadership of Durham County Council has been accused of ‘promoting division’ after it cut funding for next year's Pride event.
This year's festival received up to £10,000 in council support, but Reform reportedly said this would be withdrawn due to financial pressures and their opposition to what they describe as a ‘contested political ideology’.
Durham CC's deputy leader Darren Grimes said Pride was 'political street theatre' that 'stopped being a celebration of gay rights a long time ago'.
Durham Pride, Durham Miners Association, and the TUC have condemned the decision, with Dave Pike, regional secretary for the TUC North East, Yorkshire & Humber, accusing the party of ‘promoting division’.
‘Pride is an important celebration for LGBT+ people, a chance to look back at the gains that have been made. For the council to withdraw their support shows the lack of care they have for the people of Durham,’ he said.
Stephen Guy, chair of the Durham Miners’ Association (DMA), added: ‘Reform councillors across County Durham have underestimated the resolve of the LGBT+ community and the support of allies across the trade union movement.’
