Full Breakdown
Bootle West Councillor Resigns After Holocaust Remarks
5/12/2026, 8:52:19 PM
Resignation Following Holocaust Remarks
Bootle West councillor Cooper resigned from Reform UK after posting an apology for Holocaust remarks on Tuesday. The resignation took effect immediately, and he will serve as an independent representative.
Background & Context
Cooper was elected in Thursday's local elections to represent Bootle West, a Sefton ward, alongside two Labour candidates. Reform UK now has four councillors on Sefton Council after Cooper's resignation.
Key Figures & Groups
The primary figure is Councillor Cooper, elected to serve Bootle West. Reform UK is the party he left. Bootle West residents, who have voiced feelings of being ignored and left behind, remain his electorate.
Timeline
Thursday local elections – Cooper elected. Tuesday – he posted an apology and announced his resignation on the party website. The resignation took effect immediately.
Data & Statistics
Reform UK now has four councillors on Sefton Council after Cooper's resignation.
Why It Matters / Impact
Cooper's resignation reduces Reform UK's influence on Sefton Council and shifts his vote to an independent stance, potentially altering council decisions. The change may affect the council's balance of power, and his apology underscores the sensitivity of Holocaust discourse in local politics in the community.
Official Statements & Responses
In his post, publicly, Cooper affirmed the Holocaust's reality, cited visits to Auschwitz, and expressed regret that his comments caused upset. He apologized to victims, survivors, and anyone offended, accepted responsibility, and announced his resignation from Reform UK while pledging continued service to Bootle West as an independent councillor. He thanked supporters and pledged to earn the respect of those who did not vote for him.
Verbatim Quotes
- "The Holocaust was real." — Cooper, Bootle West councillor
- "I have visited Auschwitz multiple times and have seen first hand the conditions and historical evidence of those atrocities." — Cooper, Bootle West councillor
- "My comments were poorly expressed and have understandably caused concern and upset." — Cooper, Bootle West councillor
- "I accept that my words failed to reflect the seriousness and sensitivity this subject demands, and for that I sincerely apologise." — Cooper, Bootle West councillor
- "I take full responsibility for my remarks." — Cooper, Bootle West councillor
- "I have decided today to resign from Reform UK and continue serving as an independent representative." — Cooper, Bootle West councillor
What's Next
Cooper will sit on Sefton Council as an independent, representing Bootle West. Reform UK will operate with four councillors, and future votes will still reflect his independent stance. He said he will continue working daily to justify the confidence placed in him and earn residents' respect in the community.
