Labour Councillor defects to the Conservatives at Trafford Council

A  Labour councillor who was facing disciplinary action, has defected to the Conservative group on Trafford Council.

Cllr John Smith, who represents Bucklow St. Martin’s ward, has been a councillor  for nine years serving Sale West, Partington, and Carrington. He says he’d made his decision because “for some time I have felt that Labour in Trafford were not representing the best interests of Trafford residents.”

Labour group leader, Cllr Andrew Western, responded: “Cllr Smith resigned from the Labour group last week after being advised that he was subject to disciplinary proceedings with regard to his conduct and performance as a Labour group member. I am sure the majority of his constituents will be horrified by this move.”

Cllr Smith said of his change of allegiance: “I consider the Labour group have drifted away from democratic principles and I simply cannot continue to support them.

“I do wish to continue to strive for the best opportunities for my ward and feel that the best way to do this is by joining the Conservative group.

The leader of Trafford Conservatives and Trafford Council, Cllr Sean Anstee, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Cllr John Smith into the Conservative group.

“He has been a tireless campaigner for Partington, Carrington and Sale West over many years and is an excellent member of the council.”