An Oldham councillor who recently joined Labour has been accused of spreading leaflets which criticised LGBT topics being taught in schools at the last election.
Cllr Aftab Hussain was one of four independent councillors to hold a seat after the 2023 local elections, however last month, he announced he was joining Labour, adding to their majority on the council.
On the leaflet which has Cllr Hussain's name on it, the topic of "LGBT being taught to children in schools" is mentioned.
The leaflet reads: "It's not acceptable to brainwash our children at such a young age.
"Parents should be given the option if they want their children to be taught and the option to opt out."
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When contacted by The Oldham Times, Cllr Hussain, who has represented the St Mary's ward since 2021, said he was away at the time the leaflets were made and that he made "no contribution" towards them.
Aisha Kouser, the other person named on the leaflet, was contacted for comment but did not respond.
Cllr Louie Hamblett, who represents the Liberal Democrats and chairs the Oldham Pride event, said: “With Oldham Pride looking to celebrate its 20th anniversary this year, both myself and the committee are really looking forward to working with all to making this event a huge success.
”This year’s pride is being celebrated a stone’s throw from Cllr Hussain’s ward, so I hope his admittance to Labour means that he now totally rejects the leaflet delivered in his name and he will now join other Labour members in celebrating Oldham Pride this year.
“I worry that, without this clarification and promise from Cllr Hussain, Labour’s claim to want to make Oldham a diverse and welcoming place is another empty promise.”
The Oldham Times understands that Cllr Hussain is not currently a Labour Party member but has applied to become one.
The decision on admission will go to the Labour Party's National Executive Committee to consider his application and it is understood any comments made will form part of the consideration of his application.
Multiple requests for comment were made to Oldham Labour but were not responded to.
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