Statement from David Bishop
I unreservedly apologise for publishing inappropriate tweets and re-tweets and I am sorry for the real offence caused.
I recognise that someone standing for public office should show leadership and seek to unite communities, not divide them. I hope the residents of Brentwood South can forgive my lack of judgement in time.
I have let myself and my Party down and in order to avoid any further embarrassment, I have taken the decision to resign from the Conservative Party with immediate effect. I will not be asking anyone to vote for me on 22nd May.
I wish the Conservative Party all the best for the future.
David Bishop
2nd May 2014
Statement from John Kerslake
I have accepted David's resignation from the Party and believe it is the right decision.
The Conservative Party is all inclusive and promotes unity. As such, the matter has been dealt with swiftly and conclusively in the best interest of Brentwood and the Party.
John Kerslake
Chairman – Brentwood & Ongar Conservatives
2nd May 2014
Statement from Louise McKinlay
The views expressed on Twitter recently do not reflect the opinions or beliefs held by the Conservative group on Brentwood Council nor those of the Conservative Party and as such have no place in our team.
David's decision to step down was the right thing to do and I am pleased the Party has backed this and accepted his resignation from the team and from the Party.
We will now be focusing on our policies for the residents of Brentwood and will continue to campaign hard ahead of the 22nd May.
Louise McKinlay
Group Leader – Brentwood Conservatives