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10
May 2021
LibDems, Labour and Greens in Harrogate district consider collaboration
Informal discussions could take place between the local Liberal Democrat, Labour and Green parties about working together.
The move follows Conservative Matt Scott's victory in last week's Bilton and Nidd Gorge by-election.
Arnold Warneken, who represented Harrogate and District Green Party, told the Stray Ferret he had approached the Liberal Democrats and Labour about setting up a meeting.
Mr Warneken said co-operation "made sense" and he hoped some form of progressive alliance would emerge.
Pat Marsh, leader of the Liberal Democrats on Harrogate Borough Council, said collaboration with other parties was "a discussion that needs to be had" and she was open-minded on the subject.
Cllr Marsh described the loss of the seat on North Yorkshire County Council formally held by the Liberal Democrat Geoff Webber as "a huge shock and disappointment".
Asked why she felt voters had turned against the Liberal Democrats, she said:
Asked if she would consider her position as leader following the by-election defeat, she said she had been re-elected two weeks ago and intended to carry on.
Read more:
- Bilton Liberal Democrat candidate 'very sorry' after by-election defeat
- Conservatives win Bilton and Nidd Gorge by-election
Margaret Smith, chair of Harrogate and Knaresborough Labour Party, said it was not averse to discussions but its ability to enter into any formal arrangement with other parties would be determined by the national Labour Party. She said:
The Stray Ferret asked Cllr Scott, who won 43 per cent of the vote in Bilton and Nidd Gorge, why he felt voters had switched to the Conservatives and what was top of his agenda but he declined to answer.
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