Councillor criticised over 'rash' email

Tory Konrad Tapp emailed local media with a spoof speech by former Australian Prime Minister John Howard which has been circulating on the internet.

The email, titled "Britain needs a leader like this", has also appeared on the websites of far-right political parties.

It claims Muslims "who want to live under Sharia law" should "get out of Australia".

And in the spoof speech Mr Howard is quoted as telling immigrants who are "complaining, whining, and griping" about Australia and Christianity to leave the country.

It says: "If you aren't happy here then LEAVE.

"We didn't force you to come here. You asked to be here. So accept the country YOU accepted."

Coun Tapp, who represents Meadowhead ward, Blackburn, on Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "The email was sent in a private capacity and therefore I do not wish to make any comment."

It was sent to a local newspaper and radio station.

Council leader and Conservative group leader Colin Rigby said Coun Tapp was a new councillor and had been advised not to comment.

Coun Rigby said: "I think a little more thought would have helped, but the bottom line is it's his personal view.

"It was a little rash to send it out and it goes contrary to the views of this council.

"I have talked to him and told him not to say anything more on the subject, and that's all I have to say."

Salim Mulla, Labour councillor and senior vice chairman of the Lancashire Council of Mosques, said: "It's offensive to the Muslim community.

"The Muslim community, wherever we are, have always said we will abide by all the laws of the country we live in.

"More than 99 per cent of Muslims have the same view. This is our home.

"This sort of comment is not very helpful. The councillor is trying to stir up trouble.

"He has extreme views and spreading this sort of message is just out of order.

"I have spent more than 25 years working to build community relations in Blackburn and he is trying to drive the community apart."