Three Stoke-on-Trent Councillors Leave Conservative Party
Top Tory Daniel Jellyman has defected to Reform UK, marking a significant shift in local politics.
Councillors' Statement
"Having reflected carefully and, with regret, we no longer feel that we can best serve our residents in Stoke-on-Trent, whilst also remaining members of the Conservative Party. Our commitment will not waver and we will continue to serve our residents to the same high standards. We will keep putting local people first and work constructively with anyone who shares that goal. We will continue to speak up where decisions aren't in residents' interests, particularly where Labour's draft local plan risks building on much loved green spaces. Above all, we'll ensure your voice is heard on the issues that matter in the communities we proudly serve."
Reform UK’s Response
"I’m delighted to welcome Daniel to Reform UK. I was honoured to become the first Reform UK Councillor on Stoke-on-Trent City Council, and after securing that victory, I said it was just the beginning. Daniel's talent and experience will allow us to hold this failing Labour-led council to account for refusing to shut down asylum hotels, for its disastrous plan to concrete over so much of our green space, for letting our roads crumble, and for racking up even more debt that costs residents millions each year in interest payments alone. Today’s news shows that Reform UK is going from strength to strength here in Stoke-on-Trent."
Key Issues Highlighted
- Concerns over Labour's draft local plan impacting green spaces
- Criticism of the Labour-led council's management of asylum hotels
- Problems with local infrastructure deterioration
- Rising debt burdening residents with high interest costs
Daniel Jellyman’s move signals growing support for Reform UK in the area, as the party positions itself against current Labour leadership.
Author's summary: Three councillors, including Daniel Jellyman, have left the Conservatives for Reform UK, criticizing Labour policies and promising to prioritize residents' interests and local green spaces.