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23
Feb
Tories accused of ‘making a mockery of democracy’ in North Yorkshire after losing majority
The leader of the Green and Independents group on North Yorkshire Council has accused the Conservatives of “making a mockery of democracy” after losing their overall control.
The Conservatives have retained overall control of the council in recent years by entering into a political grouping with three Independents.
The Conservatives and Independents group held 46 of 90 council seats last year.
But the group lost its overall majority when Oatlands and Pannal councillor John Mann resigned the Conservatives in November.
This triggered a review of committees to reflect political proportionality.
Committee chairs hold influential roles in local government, controlling agendas and shaping how scrutiny and policy are carried out.
The Green and Independents group, which has doubled in size from four to eight members, hoped to gain in the shake-up.
But the controlling group only agreed to give up one committee chair, which went to Labour.
Councillor Kevin Foster, leader of the Green and Independent group, said the lack of changes “makes a mockery of democracy”.
Cllr Foster, who represents Hipswell and Colburn, accused the Conservatives and Independents group of retaining a disproportionate number of chair positions, and called for the balance to be reviewed.
He added:
Positions should be in line with political proportionality. I urge a rethink to the political balance of the council and an end to attempts to cling to power through procedural manoeuvres.
The Stray Ferret asked Conservative leader, Cllr Carl Les, to respond to the claims.
He said:
Across the country, councils allocate responsibilities in different ways but always according to their constitution. Ours reflects the fact that we are the largest single group.
The next council elections are due in May 2027.
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