Four members of Neath Port Talbot Council’s Labour group have resigned from the party less than a year before the next council elections, weakening the largest opposition party in the county borough. The changes were confirmed at a recent full council meeting, where members were informed of the political shifts.
Three councillors join Independent group
Councillors Rhidian Mizen of Bryn and Cwmavon, Oliver Stewart Davies of Sandfields West, and David Whitelock of Bryn and Cwmavon have left the Labour group to join the local Independent group. Meanwhile, Councillor Leanne Jones of Resolven and Tonna, who was appointed the authority’s first female deputy leader in 2021, will now sit as an unaffiliated member.
Reasons for resignation
Following her resignation, Councillor Jones stated that while she still believed in many Labour Party values, she had decided to leave after feeling disengaged from the Labour group in Neath Port Talbot. The Labour group currently holds the position of the largest opposition party in the county borough, with the council led by a coalition of Independent and Plaid Cymru members.
Labour group responds
In a social media post, the Labour group said: “While we are currently undertaking our candidate selections, four councillors have chosen to leave the party rather than put themselves forward for consideration. We respect their decision and thank them for their service; however, it means they have chosen not to seek a renewed mandate from Labour members or demonstrate their commitment to the standards and values expected of Labour representatives.”
The group added: “Our focus remains firmly on the future. As an active opposition party, we will continue to challenge, test and where necessary hold the current coalition administration to account. We remain united in our purpose and determined to deliver for the communities we represent.”
