Torbay's MP Kevin Foster has today (Friday 17th May 2019) given his reaction to news a coalition of Liberal Democrat and Independent Councillors will take over the administration of Torbay Council.
Whilst the recent local elections saw the Conservative Party emerge as the largest party with 15 seats on the Council, no party secured an overall majority. The Conservative Group will form the Opposition. The position of Elected Mayor has been abolished following the Referendum in 2016 and UKIP lost its sole seat on the Council at the election.
Cllr Steve Darling is expected to become Leader of the Council and Cllr Darren Cowell Deputy Leader of the Council. Kevin has today written to them both suggesting an early meeting is organised.
Commenting Kevin said: “I would like to welcome Steve and Darren to their new roles at a vital time for our bay. I look forward to working with them in a constructive spirit focused on the needs of our bay and those we jointly represent. We share a number of local priorities such as regenerating our Town Centres, protecting our environment and creating new jobs, even if I disagree with them on national issues such as their opposition to respecting the result of the Brexit vote in 2016.”
“What is important is we look to work as a team in our bay’s mutual interests. I will make my views known when I think the wrong approach is being taken by the Council, as I did with the Mayoral Administration prior to May, but will seek to work together with them.”
“Finally I know Conservative Councillors will be strong champions for the communities they were elected to serve, reflecting the confidence voters showed in making them the largest group on Torbay Council. A constructive and effective opposition is a vital part of a healthy democracy, a role I know Cllr Dave Thomas and his team will work hard to fulfil.”
ENDS
