A newly elected Reform UK councillor in Sandwell has sparked controversy after joking that he would only hold public surgeries once his stab-proof vest arrives. Councillor Bob Jones, who serves as cabinet member for environment and enforcement, made the remark in an email response to a resident's query.
Email exchange reveals joke
The comment came after David Fisher, former leader of Sandwell Conservatives and ex-councillor for Charlemont with Grove Vale, emailed three newly elected Reform councillors—including leader Ray Nock, Bob Jones, and Rachael Mitchell—to ask about their priorities and plans for surgeries. Fisher, writing as a resident, requested social media profiles and details on how they would interact with constituents.
In his reply, Councillor Jones wrote: 'Thank you for your email Mr Fisher. If you do have any issues regarding Charlemont and Grove Vale, I am sure with your experience and knowledge of the job you would know exactly who to go to get the answers first hand, however all the information that our residents will need to get the help will be published soon, as soon as my stab vest arrives I can make progress.'
Portfolio irony
The irony of the remark is not lost given that Jones' cabinet portfolio includes services ensuring public protection and community safety. The comment has raised eyebrows among residents and political opponents.
Election context
Jones was elected for a four-year term in May's local elections, where Reform UK swept to power, ending Labour's control of Sandwell Council for the first time since 1979. He received 1,499 votes in the Charlemont and Grove Vale ward, more than 600 votes ahead of Fisher.
Fisher, who lost his seat in 2024 after a series of offensive social media posts—including questioning white representation in the NHS and pledging to boycott a KFC branch over its bacon policy—had resigned but was reinstated five months later. He stood again in May but was unsuccessful.
Sandwell Council has been approached for comment but has not yet responded.
