The Muslim Tory mayor of Keighley in West Yorkshire, Cllr Mohammed Nazam, has apologised to Muslims and resigned after taking part in an LGBTQ Pride flag-raising ceremony.
Cllr Nazam was suspended by the Conservative group on Bradford Council once his comments came to light and later announced he would quit as mayor.
He said: “In relation to media reports about my suspension from the Conservative Party, I had already resigned from the Conservative Party and as a Keighley Town Mayor with immediate effect.
“A few days ago I attended the flag raising for LGBTQ community. This did not conform to my religious beliefs and hence I offered an apology to my constituents.
“By my apology I did not mean any harm to any member of my constituency. My religion teaches respect and tolerance for all and the law of the land.
“Here in the UK we are proud to have our freedom of expression. People should have the freedom to express their beliefs and live their lives as they wish to. This should apply to all communities and religious beliefs.
“I will continue to work as an Independent Town and District Councillor for everyone. I will always do my upmost to work for all members of my constituency.