Derek Bullock, a Reform UK candidate with a history of inflammatory racist remarks, has won a seat on Bolton Council representing Hulton. Bullock, who was expelled twice from the Conservative Party for racism, sparked outrage over a 2017 Facebook comment targeting Muslims.
Despite his controversial past, Bullock was elected during a significant Reform UK surge that increased their Bolton representation from one to ten seats.
During the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing coverage, Bullock posted on Facebook: “Shoot the P-kis on the spot,” a comment widely condemned for its racist nature and inaccuracy, as the bomber was of Libyan descent. He also shared content highlighting the growth of Muslim children in the UK, with comments suggesting alarm.
Bolton has recently had two consecutive Muslim mayors, making Bullock’s success notably controversial given his history of anti-Muslim rhetoric. The Reform Party’s rapid gains in the council came amid a broader political shift in the area.
Bullock denies the allegations, maintaining that screenshots circulating of his comments are fabricated. He points to his role as a trustee of the Asian Elders’ Resource Centre in Bolton as evidence against claims of racism.
Alongside Bullock’s win, another Reform candidate known for offensive remarks about Nigerians was also elected, highlighting the party’s controversial tone but growing local electoral success.
Originally published by UKNIP.