Reform UK submit fresh bid to run Kirklees Council
Reform is the biggest party on the local authority - but doesn't have enough seats for a majority
Reform UK councillors have called for a halt to “prolonged uncertainty” by forming a minority administration.
As Kirklees Council readies itself for a third attempt at selecting a leader -following a chaotic stalemate since May 20 – the council will attempt to reconvene on July 15 to make a decision.
Going head-to-head yet again are Green Party Group Leader, Andrew Cooper, and Reform UK’s Group Leader, Sarah Wood.
Both received 29 votes in favour of their leadership in the latest vote on May 28, and with no signs of the stalemate ending, Reform UK is now attempting to push a formal proposal through the council.
In the public agenda pack published on July 7, which contains the proposed minutes of the Full Council meeting next week (July 15), Cllr Sarah Wood and Cllr Mark Smith – the new deputy of the group – have asked the rest of the council to pass the motion for a “minority administration”.
This follows the “prolonged uncertainty” over the formation of an administration that “is not in the best interests” of Kirklees residents, according to the document.
The motion explained that when no single political party wins a majority in an election, it is standard practice to let the biggest party try to run the local government first – even if they have to convince others to vote for their ideas individually.
The motion read: “Democratic accountability is strengthened where the largest political group is given the opportunity to govern, while all other members continue to scrutinise, amend and vote on each proposal according to its merits.”
Currently, at 27 councillors – following the step-down of Craig Wiles due to health issues and the defection of Susan Maxfield – Reform UK is still clinging to its place as the largest group in Kirklees.
Despite this, the motion pledges to “promote democratic stability” and “effective governance.”
The motion will be discussed alongside others at the Full Council meeting on July 15.