Councillor not behind 'offensive' songs, Reform says

Reform UK has denied that "offensive and misogynistic" dance tracks posted online under the name of one of the party's councillors were created by him.

Labour called for Torfaen councillor David Thomas to resign over the songs, where he was listed as a composer and producer.

Some of the tracks, on streaming services under the artist "Dowster and Vagabond", use crude language about women.

Thomas referred BBC Wales to Reform's statement on the matter but added the broadcaster should continue to do the story because "it keeps us in the limelight".

Former Labour member David Thomas, who represents the Cwmbran ward of Llantarnam, was one of three independent Torfaen councillors that joined Reform last year, and is also a school governor.

His name appears alongside another author on the tracks on Spotify and YouTube.

Torfaen Council Leader Anthony Hunt said: "The lyrics in the songs are deeply offensive and misogynistic.

"It is not acceptable for this kind of language to come from a publicly elected official, and I am calling on councillor Dave Thomas to apologise."

A Reform spokesman said the songs were created by the other person listed, "and not councillor Thomas".

"All lyrics are samples from other music tracks and artists, none originate from councillor Thomas.

"Reform UK expects and upholds the highest standards for our candidates and elected officials."

The spokesman was asked why the songs appeared under his name but BBC Wales did not receive a response.

Torfaen council said a member of the public had complained to the council about the matter and was advised to refer it to the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales.

It added: "The school [where Thomas is a governor] contacted the council on this issue and the council has sought advice from its education improvement service. Their advice on school governance has been provided to the school."