Richard Morgan, the Labour councillor for the Fairfax East ward on Bridgwater Town Council, was one of 51 people accused of contempt of court after sitting outside the Kingsbury Oil Terminal near Tamworth in a peaceful protest as part of Just Stop Oil.
The protesters appeared at Birmingham Crown Court and were sent to HMP Pentonville after being found guilty of breaching a High Court injunction aimed at preventing protests outside the terminal.
Mr Morgan was sentenced to 23 days’ imprisonment, suspended for two years, and was also ordered to pay fines and costs totalling £320.77.
Speaking at the time, Mr Morgan said: “I took part in this protest to fight for a fairer, greener, survivable future for everyone.
“40 C in the UK is just the beginning, and we are seeing human-caused heating wreaking havoc across the globe right now.
“The climate crisis is not some way off in the future. Just look at what’s happening in Pakistan.
“Bad things happen when good people do nothing, and I want to be able to look my children, and all children, in the eye and say I am doing my utmost.”
In a statement made by Bridgwater Town Council Labour group and Bridgwater Branch Labour Party, a spokesperson announced the suspension of councillor Richard Morgan: “Councillor Richard Morgan has been suspended by the Labour Party. This is a temporary measure and will be resolved by a NEC enquiry into allegations about what they see as a ‘serious crime’.
“This pertains to his participation in the Just Stop Oil actions at Kingsbury Oil Terminal on September 14, 2022, and convicted in court for participation in that protest in breach of a High Court injunction. Cllr Morgan was sentenced to 23 days’ imprisonment, suspended for a two-year period.”
According to The Councillor Code of Conduct, a custodial or suspended sentence of three months is the minimum criteria for removal as a councillor.
Mr Morgan will sit as an independent until an enquiry is concluded. Additionally, he will have to step down from his politically appointed placements, including his role as Transport PFH.