Lib Dems appoint top brass

Howard Sykes

OLDHAM Liberal Democrats have reaffirmed the appointment, unanimously and unopposed, of Councillor Howard Sykes as their leader and Councillor John McCann as their deputy leader.

The decision was made at a recent group meeting.

Councillor Sykes said: “I am honoured that once more John and I have received the unanimous support of our party colleagues. The Liberal Democrats remain the only real opposition holding Labour to account on Oldham Council, and I am pleased that the three sitting Liberal Democrat councillors who stood for re-election ­— Councillors Williamson, Harkness and myself ­— were re-elected. This demonstrates that the public continues to value our hard work, commitment and independence in speaking up for residents on the issues that matter.

“I am also pleased to be group leader at a time when the Liberal Democrats are in fight-back mode and across the country made our first net gains (more than any other party) for years. We have a new leader in Tim Farron, who is determined to pursue a Liberal Democrat agenda for social justice, fairness and respect.

“The public are fast awakening to the impact of cuts on the ability of Oldham Council to deliver quality services. So we will also work with Labour to defend Oldham’s corner in confronting the challenge of government cuts.”