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Health Secretary Calls for Resignation of Councillor Following Indecent Exposure Admission

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has urged his former assistant to resign from his position as a councillor in east London after the aide confessed to charges of indecent exposure.

Sam Gould, a 33-year-old representative from Redbridge, admitted guilt on two separate counts at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court in Ilford on Monday.

While the Labour Party has suspended Gould, Redbridge Council clarified that there is currently no procedure in place for his suspension from the council itself.

Streeting remarked that Gould had exposed himself to a mother and her daughter, expressing his disgust and noting the long-lasting impact on the victims. He stated, “There are no words to express my horror at their ordeal, which they will have to process for a considerable time.”

Upon learning of Gould’s arrest, Streeting acted swiftly to suspend him and initiated formal procedures to terminate his employment following the guilty plea. He emphasized, “There are no excuses for his appalling behaviour. I am again calling for his immediate resignation as a Redbridge councillor.”

Kam Rai, the leader of Redbridge Council, expressed his shock and disappointment over Gould’s actions, labeling it an “inexcusable betrayal of his residents.” He confirmed that once his arrest was reported over the weekend, Gould was appropriately suspended by the party.

Rai also acknowledged the limitations of local governance, stating, “Unfortunately, there is no process for his suspension from the council. My heart goes out to the victims who have had to endure his despicable behaviour.”

Gould, who resides in Hornchurch, east London, has been released on bail and is set to face sentencing on April 7.

Source
www.bbc.com