Independents accused of council ‘hijack’

FIVE Independent councillors were accused of hijacking the parish council last night after they abstained from key votes at the council’s annual meeting.

More than 50 members of the public witnessed the shock move as the parish council voted in new chair Enid Firth, vice chair Neil Allsopp, appointed committee chairmen and approved accounts.

A consensus has traditionally been obtained between the various groups on the parish council over key committee positions. Independent councillors abstained from voting, claiming the Liberal Democrats had decided who would do each job and had filled most of the positions.

Councillor Rob Knotts, spokesman for the Independent Group, said in a statement: “I am shocked at the way the Liberal Democrats have behaved over what is an honest difference of policy on a key issue facing Saddleworth.

“This should not spill over into a vindictive attack on individuals in the way it has. Chairs and vice chairs should be appointed solely on the ability to do the job. We abstained as a protest at the blatant way party policy has been put before the best interests of Saddleworth residents.”

Liberal Democrat councillors insisted the positions were filled on merit rather than for political motives.

Councillor Brian Lord, new chairman of the finance committee said afterwards: “I think what they have done is absolutely outrageous.

“We have a pre-meeting where all councillors can decide what we are going to do. They have been part of that meeting but now have decided to abstain, which I find quite abhorrent.”