News

SHEPWAY CHAIRMAN PETER OUSTED BY PEOPLE FIRST

Liberal Democrat District Councillor Peter Smith has failed to renew his term of office as Shepway Council Chairman after the annual meeting of the council o­n Wednesday (18 May) when former Lib Dem member, and member of the breakaway People First group, Terry Preston was voted into the job.

In a bad night for Cllr Smith he has also lost his post as Vice Chairman o­n the Development Control Committee.

NEW CABINET

The Leader of Shepway Council, Robert Bliss, has invited two members of the People First group to join his Cabinet.

He said the appointments, announced when he presented his Cabinet to the annual meeting of the council, would broaden the scope of the Cabinet and said a working agreement between the Conservatives and People First would help ensure cohesive and consistent decision-making.

“This is a positive and progressive move for the council and the people of the district. It will provide us with the stability to improve services and deliver our goal of increased prosperity and regeneration.�

The new Cabinet and individual responsibilities are:

Robert Bliss  -  Leader and Cabinet Member for Overall Strategy
David Monk  - Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Corporate Services
Shirley Newlands - Environment
Carole Waters  - Leisure, Sport and Tourism
Hugh Barker  - Community Services
Linda Cufley  - Economic Development
Brian Copping  - Housing

Cllr George Bunting will leave the Cabinet to devote his time to his role of Folkestone Mayor. Cllr David Monk will take over Cllr Bunting’s role as Deputy Leader.

“The re-shuffle brings two councillors with considerable experience o­nto the Cabinet,â€?  said Cllr Bliss. “I would not have made this move if I did not believe it was the best way forward for the council and the district.â€?