Campaigners from the Pembrokeshire branch of ‘Stand Up To Racism West Wales’ have urged Haverfordwest Town Council to conduct a ‘full review’ of its co-option process after a local Reform UK candidate was unanimously voted on as a member.

The group states that it is petitioning for ‘Ethical and Inclusive Governance in Haverfordwest Town Council’ after Scott Thorley [who stood for Reform UK in the Prendergast by-election earlier this year] was appointed onto the Council during a meeting on Apr 17.

The petition states: “We, the undersigned, believe that our local councils must uphold the highest standards of ethical governance, transparency, and commitment to inclusivity.

“Decisions made at the council level should reflect the values of fairness, equality, and a dedication to anti-racism.

“Given the recent cooption of a member of Reform UK to Haverfordwest Town Council—a party openly opposed to the Anti-racist Wales Action Plan (AWAP)—we call upon our County Council to reaffirm its commitment to fostering an inclusive and anti-racist Wales by 2030.

“A clear public statement from our County Council would help reassure communities that representation in local government aligns with Wales’ national commitment to equality.

“Furthermore, we urge Haverfordwest Town Council to conduct a full review of its co-option process to ensure that those appointed adhere to principles of ethical governance and inclusivity.

“Representation within our local councils should be consistent with the mission to protect and promote an anti-racist future for all.

“We stand united in our demand for accountability, ethical leadership, and a political system that reflects the values of the people it serves.

“By signing this petition, we express our unwavering commitment to a future free from discrimination in our community.”

During the Town Council’s co-option process on April 17, Mr Thorley’s presentation to Council members was ‘positively received’ - in terms of his ‘enthusiasm and approach to working with the youth and in the community’.

At the meeting, Cllr P Lewis proposed that Mr Thorley be appointed a member of the Town Council representing the Priory Ward, which was seconded by Cllr C Black, and a unanimous vote was taken.

It seems that Cllr Thorley has already had a run in with the the same campaigners, sharing on social media last month: “I questioned Stand Up to Racism West Wales about certain aspects of their affiliated groups’ agenda, which I found potentially antisemitic. They responded with attempts to defame me. I’m open to discussion and have been transparent.”

Soon after his co-option onto the Town Council, Cllr Thorley also shared: “Looking forward to getting stuck into my new role at Haverfordwest Town Council.

“Also feel privileged to help Cllr Randell Izaiah Thomas-Turner [the Town Council’s Deputy Mayor] with the anti racist action plan over the next year.”

Cllr Thomas-Turner responded: “I look forward to working with you on the AWAP Scott - a lot of great ideas and I honestly belive that together we can make Haverfordwest the best in the west for all people no matter there colour or creed.”