MP criticises Reform UK over 'disrespectful' posts

The Labour MP for Northampton South has criticised a newly elected Reform UK councillor who he said "repeatedly disrespected the King, our monarchy, and country" on a social media account.

Ivan Dabbs, who won his council seat as his party took control of West Northamptonshire Council at this month's local elections, made comments on the King and monarchy in his feed which also has several reposts from Britain First.

Mike Reader MP said Dabbs “should not have the privilege of representing our community".

Dabbs confirmed the account was his, but neither he nor his party has commented further.

Reader said: "Mr Dabbs has repeatedly disrespected the King, our monarchy, and country.

"The residents of Northamptonshire deserve better."

According to his account Mr Dabbs, who represents the Deanshanger and Paulerspury ward, joined X in December 2024 and he last commented on it in May.

Britain First campaigns on an anti-immigration message and has called for a halt to all further immigration except in specific cases.

The group has developed a strong online following, attracting attention when one of its anti-Islamic videos was retweeted by US President Donald Trump.

Dr Simon Weaver, reader in media and communications at Brunel University in west London, said: "Britain First are a British far-right, neo-fascist party that was formed in 2011 by a former British National Party (BNP) member.

"They propagate an anti-Muslim, Islamophobic ideology and make wide use of online communication."

The BBC has approached Ivan Dabbs and Reform UK but neither wanted to comment.

Last year, party leader Nigel Farage told the BBC it would be vetting Reform UK hopefuls standing in May's local elections after controversial comments were made by a candidate for Bexhill and Battle during the 2024 general election.

Last month Ron Firman, a Reform UK candidate for West Northamptonshire Council, was reminded of the code of conduct for the parish council he was on after offensive sexist and racist tweets on his old social media account emerged.

Firman was elected to the Hunsbury Ward.

The council's constitution includes a members' code of conduct which states it is intended to promote high standards of behaviour among councillors including an obligation to "treat others with respect".

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