Daisy Blakemore-Creedon, a young Labour politician, has resigned from her position on the Peterborough City Council, citing allegations of bullying and anti-Semitic abuse as key reasons for her departure. Elected at just 18 years old in May 2024, she quickly became one of the youngest councillors in the UK, representing the Fletton and Woodston ward.
On May 5, 2025, the now 19-year-old announced via social media that she was leaving the Labour Group to serve as an independent councillor. In her statement, Blakemore-Creedon expressed her dismay over accusations that she and her family were "targeting fellow Asian Labour councillors," calling these claims "completely unfounded and deeply hurtful." She described her experience within the party as one marked by sustained bullying and marginalisation after raising serious concerns that she felt were not taken seriously.
During her brief tenure, Blakemore-Creedon faced significant challenges, including accusations of racism stemming from her advocacy for increased safety measures in council-licensed minicabs, which are predominantly operated by Asian men. "When I argued for more safety measures in minicabs, it led to a lot of ugly comments by people in the Labour group," she said. "I got messages from fellow Labour councillors accusing me of racism because lots of the cab drivers are Asian. But I wasn't targeting Asian drivers; I was talking about safeguarding for everyone, passengers and drivers."
Her resignation comes in the wake of a formal complaint she filed regarding these issues, which she claims has been delayed twice. Blakemore-Creedon also reported an antisemitic incident involving a prominent Labour Party supporter in Peterborough, which she says has yet to be addressed. "I have also raised a formal complaint regarding these matters, which has now been delayed twice, reportedly due to concerns about the political impact on the party, rather than a focus on justice or resolution," she stated.
Blakemore-Creedon’s departure is seen as a significant loss for the Labour Party, which currently holds a minority administration in Peterborough City Council. Dennis Jones, the leader of the council and the Labour Group, expressed disappointment over her resignation, emphasizing that the Labour Group would continue to work hard for local residents. "Nevertheless, the Peterborough City Council Labour Group will continue to work hard to deliver for local residents as we always have," he said.
In her social media announcement, Blakemore-Creedon reflected on the toll her experiences have taken on her confidence as a Labour member. "These experiences have left me with no confidence that I can continue to serve residents as a member of the Labour group, given the hostile environment I have faced simply for speaking out," she said.
Despite her resignation, Blakemore-Creedon remains committed to her constituents. "Moving forward, I will continue to represent my residents as an independent councillor. Without the constraints of the party whip, I will be free to vote solely in the best interests of my community, without pressure to conform to internal party agendas," she assured. She also indicated that she would respect the views of her constituents if they felt she could no longer effectively represent them.
Blakemore-Creedon, who joined the Labour Party at age 14, has expressed her deep disappointment over the situation. "I’m so disappointed with all this because my morals have always been Labour. Labour is in my blood. My grandfather was a major supporter. But my entire family have been left really disappointed as well," she said.
Her resignation has sparked conversations about the treatment of young politicians and women in politics. Blakemore-Creedon has previously shared her struggles with being taken seriously in a male-dominated environment, stating, "Being young in this space is hard. People question your ability before you even speak. They assume you're inexperienced, naïve, or just a token."
Blakemore-Creedon’s story has resonated with many, highlighting the challenges faced by young women in politics. She has been vocal about her commitment to her community and her desire to serve her constituents without the constraints of party politics. As she transitions to her role as an independent councillor, she hopes to continue advocating for the issues she believes in, including safety in minicabs.
The current composition of Peterborough City Council now includes 17 Labour councillors, 13 from Peterborough First, 11 Conservatives, eight Liberal Democrats, six Independents, and five from the Green Party. Blakemore-Creedon’s resignation may shift the dynamics within the council as she embarks on her new path.
As she continues her journey, Blakemore-Creedon remains hopeful for the future, stating, "I remain fully committed to serving the people of my ward. However, if residents feel that I can no longer effectively represent them in this capacity, I will respect that view." Her decision to step away from the Labour Group marks a significant moment in her political career, and many will be watching closely to see how her independent journey unfolds.
