We, the undersigned residents  of Hertsmere and concerned members of the public from across our nation call for immediate action following the comments made by Cllr Jeremy Newmark at Full Council on Wednesday 17th September, where, in response to a question from Cllr Rosehill, he described all those involved with the “Raise the Colours” campaign as “criminals, extremists and nonces.”

These sweeping and defamatory remarks did not only target campaign organisers but also ordinary residents, families, and children who raised the Union flag — the same flag flown by Team GB at the Olympics and under which our armed forces serve. Such comments are abusive, divisive, and wholly incompatible with the standards expected of any elected representative, let alone a Council Leader.

Why this matters

Defamatory and abusive: The language used vilifies residents and chills democratic participation.
Breach of standards: The conduct appears to breach the Nolan Principles (selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, leadership) and the Hertsmere Councillor Code of Conduct (treating others with respect; not bullying/harassing; promoting equality; not bringing the office into disrepute; and proper use of position).
Damage to trust: Leadership requires restraint and respect. These remarks undermine public confidence in the Council.

Our demands

To the Labour Party:

Immediately suspend Cllr Jeremy Newmark pending a full investigation.
Remove him as Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council.
Reaffirm a clear commitment to upholding the Nolan Principles and your own standards for elected members.

To Cllr Jeremy Newmark:

Resign immediately as Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council.
Publicly retract the remarks and issue an unreserved apology to residents, including the families and children you maligned.

Residents deserve leaders who serve with dignity, respect, and honesty  not those who defame the very people they represent. We therefore call for swift, decisive action.