Tories meet for council talks

OLDHAM’S five-strong Tory group meets tonight after talks with Labour and Liberal Democrat leaders about who will take control of the council.

The Tories could hold the balance of power despite slipping from seven councillors last year to five this year after losing one seat at the elections, and one councillor who became an independent.

Labour and the Lib Dems have 27 seats each.

Tory leader Councillor Jack Hulme and his deputy Len Quinn had talks with Labour leader Jim McMahon, and Lib-Dem leader Howard Sykes yesterday.

Councillor Hulme said: “They were very positive talks, and very helpful.

“It may be that there is a decision, but we can’t be certain and it could have to go into the early part of next week.”

Councillor Sykes, who was the council leader last year, hoped to form the ruling administration at annual council on May 26, but form a “Cabinet of all the talents’ with the other parties.

But Councillor McMahon, whose party won five seats last Thursday, hopes to seize power, supported by the casting vote of the next mayor, Labour councillor David Jones.

Councillor Sykes said: “Labour have made it clear they wish to go it alone and try and form a minority administration.

“However, I welcome the response of Councillor Hulme to at least be prepared to hold talks on all potential options. We have agreed to further talks.”