Milton Keynes Liberal Democrat Group announces leadership team after becoming city’s largest political party
Milton Keynes Liberal Democrat Group, which became the largest political party on the city council following last week’s local elections, has announced its leadership team.
The Liberal Democrats secured 20 seats at Milton Keynes City Council’s local elections, one more than the Labour Party, which had 19 councillors.
Councillor Jane Carr, who was one of three Lib Dems elected in the Newport Pagnell ward, and received 2,584 votes, has been re-elected as group leader.
Kerrie Bradburn, who was one of three Lib Dems elected in the Bradwell ward, receiving 1,946 votes, was elected as the group’s deputy leader.
Peter Cannon, who was one of three Lib Dems elected in the Furzton ward, receiving 1,533 votes, will continue in the role of group chair.
Marie Bradburn, who was elected in the Bradwell ward with 1,902 votes, was elected as the group’s vice-chair.
Tony Oyakhire, who was elected in the Newport Pagnell ward alongside Cllr Carr, receiving 2,127 votes, will continue in the role of group whip.
Liberal Democrat candidates received 19 per cent of the vote share at the elections, a lower percentage than any other party which had councillors elected.
The Liberal Democrat Group has 20 councillors, which are split evenly between men and women, while three of the group’s five leadership positions are held by women.
Speaking following her election as group leader Cllr Carr said: “Last week’s result was a vote for hard working local people who listen, care and stand up for Milton Keynes all year round, not just at election time.
“We’d like to thank every resident who placed their trust in us, as well as our candidates, members and volunteers who worked tirelessly throughout the campaign.
“I’m delighted to have been re-elected by the group to lead the Lib Dems on the City Council.
“Our focus now is protecting vital services, supporting local communities and helping to build a safer, fairer and greener city.
“Over the next few days, we’ll be speaking with other parties about how we can work in the best interests of Milton Keynes and continue delivering for residents.”
Following last week’s local elections, Milton Keynes Labour Group elected Cllr Lauren Townsend, who was elected to the Wolverton ward with 1,529 votes, as its leader.
The move made her the first woman to hold the position.
The Conservatives won 12 seats on the council, while Reform won nine seats, attracting the highest vote share of all the parties at 24 per cent.
The full results for all the wards are available here.
The new leader of Milton Keynes City Council will be appointed at the authority’s annual general meeting on Wednesday May 20.