Former Wakefield Reform councillor joins Social Democratic Party
Rhys Carr resigned from Reform to become independent in June, just over a month after the party swept to power at the local elections
A former Reform UK councillor in Wakefield who quit the party two months ago has joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Rhys Carr resigned from Reform to become independent in June, just over a month after the party swept to power at the local elections, describing the party as “no longer the right fit for me.”
Coun Carr, who represents Ackworth, North Elmsall and Upton ward, today announced he will now be sitting as an SDP councillor.
He said: “I am proud to confirm that I have joined the Social Democratic Party.
“I believe deeply in putting people first, standing up for our communities, protecting vital local services, and ensuring fairness and opportunity for everyone in my ward and the wider Wakefield district.
“At this very moment, more than anything else, what matters most is that we all work together.
“Whatever our differences, we share the same goal to build a better, safer, more prosperous place for our families, our neighbours, and future generations.
“Real progress happens when we stand side by side and that is exactly what I intend to do.”
The move means Coun Carr becomes the first SDP member on Wakefield Council.
The party has three other councillors in the UK, who all represent Middleton Park ward on Leeds City Council.
Stephen Balogh, SDP chair, said: “We are delighted to welcome Rhys Carr to the SDP and look forward to him establishing an SDP party presence on Wakefield Council.
“Our party brings serious politics back into public discourse.
“Where we hold elected office, we have a strong track record of representing the interests of our constituents and we look forward to doing the same now for the residents and businesses of Ackworth, North Elmsall and Upton ward.”
Coun Carr was elected to serve a four-year term after receiving the most votes in his ward at the elections on May 7.
In a dramatic shift, Reform took control of the local authority from Labour after winning 58 out of 63 seats.
At the time of quitting the party Coun Carr said: “I have made the decision to leave the Reform Party, as it is no longer the right fit for me.
“It has become clear that local issues are not prioritised, and that is simply not what I stood for when I was elected.
“Let’s be honest — photo opportunities don’t solve problems.”
A Reform UK Wakefield group spokesperson previously said: “Councillor Carr has decided to leave the party before the outcome of an ongoing internal investigation into allegations around his conduct.
“We’d like to reassure residents of Ackworth, North Elmsall and Upton that they can continue to rely on their Reform councillors.
“Chad (Thomas) and Kevin (Atcheson) will ensure that this ward continues to have strong and hard-working Reform UK representation.”