A COUNCIL’S new leaders have hit out at the Conservative Party for “meddling in local democracy”.
Worcestershire County Council leader Matt Jenkins was forced to make changes to his cabinet just days after taking control of the council when three Tory councillors resigned because of pressure from Conservative HQ.
Deputy leader Adam Kent has also been suspended by the party.
DEFIANT: Adam Kent says no-one in national government will tell him what to do (Image: Supplied)
At the first cabinet meeting under the new administration, Cllr Jenkins set out his key priorities as leader, pledging to “keep any future council tax increase below five percent”.
He also said he wanted to reduce the council’s reliance on exceptional financial support and get the council ready for the handover to whichever authority replaces it – whether that is one or two unitary councils.
“We do not underestimate the scale of that challenge,” he said.
“We will do that despite Tory HQ forcing changes in my cabinet – meddling in local democracy. We still have the skill and experience to carry this out.”
Cllr Kent said: “Interference from national parties is unacceptable. No-one in national government is going to tell me what to do.
“I’m here to represent my residents in Wythall.
“I’ve had a lot of love from the cabinet while I’m going through a horrendous situation.”
The BBC has reported that Cllr Kent received a death threat, which has been reported to the police.
Cllr Kent said local support for the new alliance was “unbelievable”.
“Look at the relationships that have been built between people who were previously at each others’ throats,” he added.
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Cllr Kent also promised to be “at the doors” of the council’s finance team “like the chancellor of the exchequer”.
New education chief Dan Boatright Greene joked: “Thanks to Kemi Badenoch for the promotion.”
Thursday’s cabinet meeting was well attended by councillors from all political parties and saw pledges from the new cabinet to work collaboratively with other members, and to listen to council staff.
We have asked the Conservative Party for comment.
