"When our councillors decide to change parties part way through their term of office, they should resign so that an election is held. Most people intend their vote for a party in the election, rather than for the particular person standing. So, if someone decides to change party part way through their term it's only fair that they should resign and, if they like, stand again in their new colours."
"I completely understand that some residents may feel surprised or disappointed by my decision to join Reform UK after so many years as a Conservative. It is not a decision I have taken lightly. However, in local elections people vote first and foremost for the individual candidate they trust to work hard for them. There is no precedent for councillors standing down and calling a by-election after changing party"
Two councillors switched from the Conservative Party to Reform UK and rejected calls to resign and trigger a by-election. Caroline Clapper, who serves on county and borough councils, said a by-election would impose a significant and unnecessary cost on the taxpayer and that there is no precedent for councillors standing down after changing party. Fellow defector Brett Rosehill noted other councillors have switched parties without similar demands. Opponents argued voters elect parties and that councillors who change party should resign so voters can choose again. Clapper previously won 67% in Watling ward.
Read at www.bbc.com
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