William Eichler 20 October 2025

‘Suck it up’: Leaked video leads to Reform UK suspensions

‘Suck it up’: Leaked video leads to Reform UK suspensions image
© Antiquary / Shutterstock.com.

Reform UK has suspended four councillors following the leak of a video from a virtual Kent County Council meeting.

The footage, obtained by The Guardian over the weekend, shows council leader Linden Kemkaran telling party members to ‘f***ing suck it up,’ during a discussion marked by tensions over local government reorganisation and budget balancing.

A party spokesperson confirmed to the BBC that Paul Thomas, Oliver Bradshaw, Bill Barret, and Maxine Fothergrill have had the party whip suspended while an internal investigation takes place.

The spokesperson said the suspensions were based on ‘evidence’ that the councillors had ‘brought the party into disrepute.’

To learn more about Reform UK, check out: Reform UK: What Britain’s fastest rising party stands for and Reform UK’s ‘Doge’ witch-hunts will achieve little.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Design & Projects Manager

Bath & North East Somerset Council
Grade 12 £59,568 - £66,801 per annum
We’re committed to sustainability, smart infrastructure, and improving people’s lives. Bath, Somerset
Recuriter: Bath & North East Somerset Council

Senior Legal Officer (Qualified Childcare Solicitor/Lawyer) (CDC)

City Of Doncaster Council
Grade 10, £47,154 - £51,235
The successful applicant will have good communication skills and be able to manage their time effectively and efficiently. Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council

Senior Legal Officer - Property (CDC)

City Of Doncaster Council
Grade 10, £47,154 - £51,235 (depending upon knowledge and experience)
We are looking to appoint an experienced Solicitor, Barrister or FCILEX to our team Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council

Human Resources Administrator

Wyre Borough Council
£25,989 - £26,403
Are you organised, customer-focused, and passionate about supporting people and processes? Poulton-Le-Fylde, Lancashire
Recuriter: Wyre Borough Council

Senior Housing Enforcement Officer

Wyre Borough Council
GRADE 9 – £39,862 to £42,839
Are you an experienced housing professional looking to make a real impact? Poulton-Le-Fylde, Lancashire
Recuriter: Wyre Borough Council
Linkedin Banner