Opposition parties agree to ensure thorough scrutiny of the minority administration at Bedford Borough Council

The Labour and Liberal Democrat Groups on Bedford Borough have agreed a united approach to Chairs of non-Executive Committees that aren't appointed by the Mayor. This will ensure that - In light of no party having an overall majority - there is thorough and fair scrutiny of the political management and performance of the Council.

Labour Group Leader Cllr Carl Meader said "When Labour Councillors were in a joint administration with Councillors of various parties, Chairs of Committees were not of the same party as the Portfolio Holder. We will maintain this tradition of open scrutiny in this Tory single-party administration by supporting Chairs of Committees and Vice-Chairs to be from any other parties. We want to ensure the residents of Bedford Borough are served by the wisest decision making and that the council makes the best choices with its limited resources."

Liberal Democrat Group Leader Cllr Henry Vann said "No one party secured a majority on the Council at the 2023 elections, but with a single party assuming administration of the Council and holding all the cabinet positions, it is only right that balance is maintained through the Committee system and Chairs and Vice-Chairs of those Committees that the Mayor does not control the appointment to. We will work across all parties - with Labour, Greens and Independent Councillors to protect frontline services, ensure the Council maintains its robust finances, and protect investment that has been so hard fought for by the previous administration."