Understand
Reform UK cabinet councillor James Sawkins steps aside amid police inquiry
Overview
Reform UK councillor James Sawkins has stepped away from his cabinet role at North East Lincolnshire Council following concerns raised over an ongoing police investigation. Council leader Oliver Freeston stated that Sawkins has not been charged with an offence and remains a party councillor, but is stepping down from his cabinet responsibilities while dealing with personal bereavement. The police inquiry follows arrests made in September involving suspected unlicensed prescription drugs and Class A drugs.
Key points
- Reform UK councillor James Sawkins has stepped away from his cabinet role on North East Lincolnshire Council.
- Council leader Oliver Freeston confirmed Sawkins has not been charged with an offence, noting the decision also accounts for Sawkins' ongoing personal bereavement.
- Local Labour MP Melanie Onn previously wrote to Reform UK's chairman regarding Sawkins' involvement in an ongoing police investigation.
- Humberside Police previously stated that a man and a woman were arrested in September following warrants in Grimsby and Waltham concerning unlicensed medicines and Class A drugs.
- Sawkins represented Waltham and served as the portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities.