A CALDERDALE councillor who is suspended by his party pending an investigation has tweeted a brief statement on social media.

It is understood Coun Faisal Shoukat, who represents Park ward on Calderdale Council for Labour and is Cabinet member for Public Health and Cohesion, has been “administratively suspended” from the party pending an investigation.

It has not been revealed what the reason for the investigation is, but Coun Shoukat posted a brief message on Twitter which says: “My stance on Palestine is well known. That is all I have to say at this moment.”

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Coun Shoukat did not take his seat when Cabinet met at Halifax Town Hall on Monday, with the meeting moved to the council chamber where Leader of the Council, Coun Tim Swift (Lab, Town) outlined the council’s plan to meet the challenge of coronavirus.

Council meetings are suspended until Friday, May 15, as part of the plan.

A Labour Party spokesperson said last week: “We treat all complaints of this nature extremely seriously, and they are fully investigated in line with our rules and procedures.”

The Labour Group on the council has been contacted for comment on the story, including how the suspension might affect Coun Shoukat’s Cabinet role which includes the Public Health portfolio.

Coun Shoukat retained his seat at last year’s local council elections and is set to serve until 2023.

He has represented Park ward since 2011.