Latest news with #politicalattrition
BBC News
12 hours ago
- Politics
- BBC News
Walsall Council opposition leader calls for review of authority's culture
Walsall Council's opposition leader has called for an investigation into the "conduct and culture" of elected members at the authority following the resignation of its leader last leader Garry Perry resigned on 21 May, stating that he had been subject to a "campaign of political attrition, deliberate undermining, and personal hostility".Leader of the Labour group Matt Ward had written to the council's chief executive, Emma Bennett, demanding a review into the allegations.A spokesperson for Walsall Council said: "No specific complaint has been received by the council from anyone to investigate." Ward said: "Councillor Perry described a toxic environment marked by political hostility, sustained personal undermining, and behaviour that he said prioritised internal self-interest over the needs of the borough."These are serious and credible concerns that, while directed at some elected members, reflect poorly on the institution if not addressed transparently and with urgency."I also request confirmation that the planning peer review report will be released publicly, and that the council commissions a peer review into licensing. I believe a formal review would now be both timely and necessary."These actions are needed to restore confidence, ensure accountability, and reaffirm that this council operates with integrity at every level."The council did not comment on the planning or licensing peer reviews.A spokesperson for the authority said: "The council takes concerns about bullying very seriously. "No specific complaint has been received by the council from anyone to investigate."The council has a robust process to investigate all issues and complaints that are raised through our formal processes." Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.
BBC News
23-05-2025
- Politics
- BBC News
Former Walsall Council leader praised for 'impeccable' service
The acting leader of Walsall Council has paid tribute to the authority's former leader following his sudden Garry Perry announced on Wednesday he was resigning as leader with immediate effect, citing being subjected to a "campaign of political attrition" as the reason for his deputy, councillor Adrian Andrew, has stepped in as acting leader of the Conservative-run council until a replacement can be a statement, Andrew said he wanted to pay tribute to Perry's "impeccable leadership and service" to both the Conservative group and Walsall Council over many years. "Garry is an incredibly caring and empathetic person who has the best interests of residents in Pelsall and communities across Walsall at heart," Andrew had been selected as leader of the council in June 2024, after the authority's longest-serving leader Mike Bird a statement announcing his sudden departure, Perry said he had been subjected to "a campaign of political attrition, deliberate undermining, and personal hostility".He suggested the leadership position he was in was "bullying dressed up as politics" and said he would not allow himself to be "complicit by staying silent or clinging to office"."I leave this office with my head held high, proud of what we've achieved, and more certain than ever that Walsall deserves better than the behaviour it is currently being subjected to behind closed doors," he councillors will elect a new group leader at an upcoming meeting, before voting for a new council leader at a full council also promised residents that services would continue to be delivered as normal."The people of Walsall borough can be assured that services will continue to be delivered by dedicated and conscientious members of staff," he said."And the council will continue to play its full role at the regional level, making sure we are at the table to secure more investment into our borough." This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations. Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.
