Councillor removed after calling some children in care "downright evil"

A newly-elected councillor has been removed from his committee role after making controversial remarks about children in care.

Reform UK councillor Andy Osborn described some children in care as "downright evil" during a meeting of Cambridgeshire County Council's children and young people committee on Tuesday. He claimed that some were “not just naughty children” but had learned harmful behaviours from “bad parents.”

His comments, reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, included references to children “smashing cars up,” “running away from home,” and being “on drugs.”

The remarks drew immediate criticism, with other councillors and the council’s executive director noting that children in care have often experienced significant trauma, which can lead to challenging behaviour.

Reform UK’s local group leader, James Sidlow, called Osborn’s comments “clumsy and regrettable,” adding: “They do not reflect or represent those of our local Reform UK group or the national party.” Sidlow confirmed he would replace Osborn on the committee following an internal review.

The county council also issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to children in care and those with care experience.

Committee chairwoman Edna Murphy, a Liberal Democrat, said society “too often” overlooks the needs of these children, adding: “These children are our children and, like any parent, we want to ensure they get the best services and support.”

During the meeting, it was also revealed the council had overspent by £7.5 million on care placements. Martin Purbrick, the council’s executive director for children, education and families, said: “We offer support to all those families who need it. Our low rate of children in care compared to many other areas really demonstrates the success of our services.”