THE former mayor of Salisbury has apologised for the series of alleged anti-Semitic text messages that led to his expulsion from the Conservative party. 

Councillor Atiqul Hoque, who now sits as an Independent on Salisbury City Council, was expelled by the Conservatives for sending "offensive and inappropriate comments on WhatsApp and social media" in February this year. 

The party said: "Following a careful examination of the evidence, it has been determined that councillor Hoque’s comments are in clear breach of the standards expected from individuals holding public office.

"As a result, the Conservative Party has taken the decision to expel Councillor Atiqul Hoque from the party."

(Image: Spencer Mulholland)

The messages in question were then leaked to the Journal. 

Cllr Hoque has now issued an unreserved apology, more than five months later. 

His statements reads: “Cllr Atiqul Hoque in considering the content of his texts which were reported in the Salisbury Journal and the response which they have occasioned, has reflected, and revisited those words and the offence that they have caused.  He wishes to offer an unreserved apology.

"He wholeheartedly regrets and apologises for any hurt and or offence that he may have caused when his words were reported in the Salisbury Journal.  His texts, written in haste, were clumsy. 

"He intended no offence to anyone and apologises without reservation.  Cllr Hoque is opposed to violence from whatever source and is deeply committed to peace and the inclusion of all people of whatever religion, racial or cultural persuasion.”