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21
Sept 2021
'Political bias' row in Starbeck over appointment of residents' group chair
A political row has broken out in Starbeck over the election of a new chair to a residents' group tonight.
Chris Watt has put his name forward to be on the committee of Starbeck Residents' Association and to become its new chair.
The association, which awards grants and campaigns to safeguard local facilities, holds its annual general meeting at St Andrew's Church in Starbeck at 7.30pm.
A vote will take place to appoint a new chair, vice-chair, secretary and treasurer and a new committee will be appointed.
However, Mr Watt's decision to stand has attracted criticism from a local business owner because he is a member of Harrogate and Knaresborough Labour Party.
Andrew Hart, who owns the Red Box Post Office on Starbeck High Street, told the Stray Ferret he opposed Mr Watt standing because his decisions could be influenced by his Labour affiliation.
The group's current chair, Geoff Foxall, also has connections with the local Labour party.
Mr Hart pointed to the association's constitution, which states one of its objectives is to be "a strong non-political community voice" that represents the views of Starbeck residents.
He said this meant active political party members should be prevented from standing for senior positions.
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He added:
Mr Hart set up a group called Starbeck Community Group this year to debate Starbeck issues.
Mr Watt told the Stray Ferret he would not comment until after the AGM tonight.
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