Date issued: 16 July 2025
“The recent comments made by former Mayor and current Honorary Alderman Gerard Oxford were offensive, unacceptable, and do not reflect the values of Colchester City Council or our community.
“Referencing the Holocaust in this way is deeply wrong and distressing. The language used was dehumanising. Seeking asylum is a legal right, and Colchester rejects language that spreads hate or fear.
“The title of Honorary Alderman is symbolic and carries no power, but we are taking this matter seriously and will take appropriate action.
“All political parties on the council agree that this kind of language has no place in public life. Colchester remains a City of Sanctuary, committed to respect, compassion, and learning from history.”
Cllr David King, Leader of the Council
Cllr Martin Goss, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group
Cllr Julie Young, Leader of the Labour Group
Cllr Paul Dundas, Leader of the Conservative Group
Cllr Kemal Cufoglu, Leader of the Green Group
Colchester City Council statement on offensive comments by former Mayor
A cross-party statement from Colchester City Council