Councillor apologises for telling call handler to speak English
Summary
A Newport City councillor, Janet Cleverly, apologized after telling a council call handler to "speak English" during a phone call about illegal dumping. An investigation found her comments were inappropriate and discriminatory, and she must complete extra training as a result.Key Facts
- Councillor Janet Cleverly made the comments while reporting fly-tipping to Newport City Council.
- The call handler tried to explain there were "disruptive sounds" on the line and asked Cleverly to repeat information.
- Cleverly said, "I'm sorry, can I speak to somebody who's speaking English?" and later repeated, "Speak English."
- A manager reviewed the call recording and raised concerns about Cleverly's tone and language.
- The council’s monitoring officer said the call handler’s English was fluent and that Cleverly’s comments were discriminatory and possibly racially motivated.
- The call handler felt upset but withdrew from the investigation.
- Cleverly apologized, said she did not intend to offend, and described the call as a "really bad line."
- The council's standards committee found Cleverly breached the code of conduct on equality, respect, and disreputable behavior.
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