So the Conservative Group on
Southend Council has decided to appoint a new leader, forcing out Cllr Tony Cox
and installing Cllr James Courtenay. At the outset I should say that I have
considerable respect for both gentlemen who have served the Town and Party well
over a number of years. In fact whilst Council Leader I appointed them both to
their first cabinet posts and found them effective, articulate and hardworking
members of the Administration.
It is of course disappointing for
Cllr Cox to be forced out against his wishes but I am surprised that he has
chosen to leave the Conservative Group and sit as an Independent. I read his
recent Facebook entry which could not be described as his version of mea
culpa but reminded me of Kenneth
Williams in Carry on Cleo” – Infamy,
Infamy, they’ve all got it in for me!
I hope that he will rethink his
position once the dust has settled. No political leader is unchallengeable and
if they lose the support of their group there is no realistic option other than
to step down. He led the Group through some difficult challenges and was Leader
of the Council for a year but perhaps now is the right time to try a different
approach. This does not undermine or devalue the efforts and progress he made
but I am not convinced that his current actions or comments will enhance that
reputation. The Conservatives need to regain control of Southend Council and I
wish Cllr Courtenay every success as he works towards the next local elections
in 2026. That task would be easier with a supportive and motivated Cllr Cox but
perhaps that is too much to ask for!
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