A deputy mayor in Tower Hamlets has resigned from the cabinet after reportedly clashing with mayor John Biggs.

East London Advertiser: Mayor John Biggs. Picture: LABOUR PARTYMayor John Biggs. Picture: LABOUR PARTY (Image: TH Lab Pty)

Cllr Shiria Khatun has stepped down after she was allegedly removed from her post as the cabinet member for community affairs abruptly.

Ms Khatun is claimed to have said she felt bullied by the mayor and he may have been intimidated by her because she is a “strong, confident woman”.

There are two other deputy mayors and Ms Khatun will continue as a Labour councillor in the Lansbury ward.

The East London Advertiser has contacted Ms Khatun for a comment.

Mr Biggs said: “It is regrettable that Shiria has decided to act in this way.

“While I am grateful for her work, during the past year it became apparent to me, and others, that the community safety portfolio required a new approach. “I was happy to discuss her new role with her but despite attempts to contact Shiria to discuss this she has not responded to calls, texts or emails.

“The claims made by Ms Khatun in my view have no substance but if she feels they do she must make a formal complaint and this must be properly and independently investigated.”