Councillor Lawrence Davies, Reform UK councillor for Rodbourne Cheney, is alleged to have been involved in an altercation on Bourne Road at around 11am on Friday, 4th July.
According to Wiltshire Police, a man in his 50s was allegedly assaulted by a woman during the incident, resulting in his glasses being broken. Police said there were no reports of any serious injuries.
Claims circulating following the incident that hot liquid was thrown at Cllr Davies have not been confirmed by Wiltshire Police.
An interview with Cllr Davies after the first full council meeting.
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A spokesperson for the force said:
“We are investigating following a report of an assault in Bourne Road, Moredon.
“At around 11am on 4th July, a female suspect has assaulted the victim, a man in his 50s, during an altercation, breaking his glasses.
“There are not thought to have been any serious injuries.
“Our enquiries are ongoing.”
Reform UK Swindon leader Cllr Sara Godwin said the alleged incident reflected a wider concern about the tone of political discourse.
She said:
“It is not by any means acceptable for a bystander to abuse and assault an elected official carrying out his work.
“No councillor, regardless of their political affiliation, should face intimidation, harassment or physical assault whilst serving their community.
“We have seen a rise in abuse directed towards Reform representatives, and incidents such as this demonstrate the genuine risks faced by those involved in public service.
“Councillor Davies was visibly shaken following the alleged attack.”
Cllr Godwin said the incident should serve as a reminder that political disagreements must never turn into violence.
She added:
“We believe it is important that the wider context is understood. This is not simply about one isolated incident, it is about the safety of elected representatives and ensuring that political disagreements never descend into intimidation or violence.
“Every councillor and elected representative, irrespective of political party, has the right to carry out their duties without fear of harassment, assault or intimidation.
“We hope this incident serves as a reminder that respectful political debate must always prevail over abuse and violence.
“Attack our policies, not our people.”
Following subsequent reports of an alleged attack involving former MP Ann Widdecombe, Cllr Godwin also said:
“Like many, Reform UK Swindon is shocked and saddened by the news involving Ann Widdecombe. Our thoughts are with everyone who knows her.
“Political disagreement is a vital part of democracy. Violence is not. No elected representative, volunteer or campaigner should fear being attacked because of their beliefs.
“Please let this be the end of personal hatred and political violence. If you disagree with Reform UK, challenge our policies, question our ideas, hold us to account, but never attack our people.”
Wiltshire Police’s investigation remains ongoing.
