Reform has failed a basic test of political organisation in Warwickshire
But now, 41 days into the role, he has resigned, handing over to George Finch, his 18-year-old deputy. Howard has released a short statement explaining his decision, citing his health. 'The role of leader is an extremely demanding role', he laments, 'and regretfully my health challenges now prevent me from carrying out the role to the level and standard that I would wish'. Finch has pledged that the council was in 'steady hands', and that the party's mission – centred on filling in potholes, starting an apprenticeship programme, and improving SEND provision – 'remained unchanged'. One presumes DOGE's agents are on their way.
What to make of this? Howard's health is a matter between him and his doctor. But unless it has deteriorated within recent weeks in role – during which, according to reports, he took a trip to the Dominican Republic – he surely knew that running the council might be beyond his abilities. Is Finch still in control? Is he balancing his duties with doing his A-Levels? Then again, neither age nor health problems should be a barrier to going into politics. Pitt the Younger led Britain for almost two decades from the grand old age of 24. Finch can surely manage Warwickshire for a week at 18.
Yet this is also an illustration of Reform's ongoing struggles with professionalism. Was it really the case that, of the 23 elected, the best two leaders the councillors could find were a man sufficiently unwell to do the role for six weeks, and a lad who has barely started shaving? If you were a serious professional working in the City, in business, or in tech, who was worried about the state of Britain and thinking of going into politics on Reform's ticket, wouldn't these shenanigans put you off?
Politics is difficult. Reform have had to scale up at speed. Before last month, there was still widespread disbelief that they could win a national election. But now they have and are on course for government. If the councils the party now runs are supposed to be a demonstration of what a future Reform regime will entail, let alone a breeding ground for talent, one can't be optimistic.
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