The Lord Mayor of Liverpool has reportedly been suspended from the Labour Party after sharing a racist video on WhatsApp.
Peter Brennan was after just two months in the role , when a complaint was made about the online activity.
Cllr Brennan, who also sit as a patron of anti-racism charity, the Anthony Walker Foundation, is believed to have shared a video that made comparisons between a black person and a monkey.
Now, the ECHO understands that Mr Brennan has since been suspended from the Labour Party as a result of the complaint made against him.
A spokesperson for the party told the ECHO : "The Labour Party takes all complaints about racism extremely seriously, which are fully investigated in line with our rules and procedures and any appropriate disciplinary action is taken.
"We cannot comment on individual cases."
It is believed that an investigation will be held into the incident.
In a statement today, Mayor Anderson said: “This morning, I was shocked and appalled to see a racist video that was circulated by our Lord Mayor Cllr Peter Brennan. Racist language and behaviour is inexcusable and unforgivable in all its forms.
“The video is completely at odds with my values, the values of Liverpool City Council and all who live and work across the city.
"The hurt that this will have caused to people across the city, including members of my own family is unacceptable from someone who we have given the honour to act as our first citizen.
“I have spoken to Cllr Brennan this morning and after that conversation he has agreed to stand down immediately from the office of Lord Mayor. I have also referred the matter to the Labour Party regionally and nationally.
"His position as a member of the Labour Party will be dealt with in accordance with party rules.
“The actions I have taken needed to be taken immediately and make clear that anyone, no matter who you are in politics, you will be held to account.
“This appalling video was circulated 14 years to the day since the promising and talented Merseyside teenager Anthony Walker was brutally murdered in a horrific racist attack.
“Liverpool is an open and inclusive city that welcomes people from all backgrounds and faiths. We celebrate and encourage diversity, we are the world in one city. Just days ago, 12,000 people turned out to show their solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community at Liverpool Pride.
“On behalf of the people of Liverpool I apologise for the offence and hurt caused.”
A replacement for Lord Mayor of Liverpool will be announced shortly.
