THE Mayor of Salisbury who has been expelled by his political party for alleged anti-Semitic comments has said "there is no truth whatsoever in the allegations". 

It comes after some of the messages that formed part of the formal complaint that led to Councillor Atiqul Hoque's suspension were leaked to the Journal. 

Cllr Hoque added that he is disappointed the story has been sent to the media when he was told to keep the matter confidential.

He added: "I will be fighting to clear my name as I am entirely innocent of these allegations.

"My track record speaks for itself; over many years I have worked for all the people of Salisbury, regardless of their religion or ethnic background.

"I am proud of having Jewish friends and supporters, and those I have heard from have sent me messages of support." 

Live updates: Everything we know as Atiqul Hoque expelled for alleged antisemitism

Salisbury Journal: Councillor Atiqul Hoque

Councillor Hoque has been a Conservative city councillor for St Edmund’s since 2015, and Mayor since May 2023. He also briefly served as a Wiltshire councillor.  

He said in a statement sent to the Journal: "As someone who has experienced occasional racism and discrimination myself, I believe there is no place for either at all.

"In due course I will be happy to share all the communication with everyone was involved as I have nothing to hide."