- 12/05/2021
- Posted by: Canterbury Labour
- Category: Latest News
With the election of Pip Hazelton to Westgate ward, the Labour team is restored to 10 members, as it was before the untimely death of Gill Gower in February last year.
Speaking about his decision to step back, Alan Baldock said:
“I’m very proud of the dedicated group of councillors we have in Canterbury. After 7 years it is wonderful to return a Labour group of 10 councillors when I remember at one time there was only one. Last week’s election shows us that the Labour vote has been steadily increases in our district – Canterbury is no longer Conservative. I remain committed to delivering the Labour values of social justice, fairness and decency as part of a team of wonderfully skilled colleagues over the next couple of years.’
Dave Wilson thanked Alan for his efforts in guiding the 2019 intake of councillors and providing a continuous Labour voice on the city council during some difficult times.
Wilson condemned the Tory plan to abolish the current committee structure on the council which ensures the minority parties get a say in policy making.
He said: “This Council faces many challenges. We have a massive budget shortfall which has meant cuts in services but the Tory Leadership has decided now is the time for an unnecessary, time consuming and costly re-organisation of how the council is run. This is purely to give themselves more power and less public accountability.
“Labour will work with all opposed to this – residents’ associations, campaign groups and other political parties – to do everything we can to stop this power grab.
“We also make sure that the residents of Canterbury and central Whitstable do not have decisions imposed on them by Tory councillors from Herne Bay and rural seats who simply do not understand the needs of our City and town. The voters of Canterbury have overwhelmingly chosen to be represented by Labour at district and county levels, and their voices must be heard.”
