So Cllr Neil Rix, the mayor of Dover, and the town council which he leads are refusing to reveal the results of a probe into his conduct.

This behaviour is more outrageous than that shown in the YouTube video which became an internet sensation in the summer.

Rather than an honourable response, it is now exposed as a cynical smokescreen designed to take the heat out of the situation earlier this year in the hope it all blows over.

Well it hasn’t and the same issues confront Cllr Rix today as they did then.

His belief that simulating drug taking accords with the dignity of his office is quite simply breathtaking.

Take any other role model in Dover. A head teacher. Our MP. The police chief superintendent.

If a similar video emerged of them doing the same, no matter how long ago it was filmed, their position would be untenable and their resignation would be swift.

This whole episode does not reflect well on the rest of the council.

Do they really expect the public they were elected to serve to put up with such appalling behaviour?

Do they really believe that the dignity of the office has not already been harmed?

Do they really believe this issue does not distract from their day-to-day work?

Do they really believe their code of conduct is fit for purpose?

Just how badly does a mayor have to behave before he or she is roundly condemned?

Cllr Rix may or may not await the verdict of the Dover District Council monitoring officer. He should wait no longer.

The brave, honest and honourable way to put this matter to rest is to step down as mayor and then as a councillor.

If he believes he has the public’s support, there is nothing stopping him from standing again and starting to rebuild his political career.

Anything less is shabby, shoddy and shambolic.