Labour's housing climb down

3.31.30pm GMT Thu 17th Nov 2005

A successful challenge has led to a major climb down on the membership of the Shadow Board running the City's new Housing Association.

Previously Councillors who voted against the transfer of the City's Council homes were blocked from standing for the Board.

The backdown comes following a challenge by Liberal Democrat Councillors to a ruling which blocked their membership, as it was claimed that Councillors who had voted against the transfer would 'not act in the interests' of the new company.

The move came at tonight's Policy and Resources Committee of Brighton and Hove City Council.

The outcome could well have national implications, where other Shadow Boards are being considered.

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Paul Elgood said: 'We challenged this because the ruling was just plainly wrong. We sit on many boards and panels and we don't always agree with elements of their work, but we still contribute positively to them.

'This legal advice was deeply flawed, and when challenged it crumbled. The Council was unable to uphold its position, and could have been challenged if they pressed ahead.

'At least a fair and open process was allowed. But we had to fight to get it this far.'

The Councillors were supported in their challenge by the Lib Dem Shadow Housing Minister, Paul Holmes MP, who challenged Government Minister Yvette Cooper on the ruling.

Lib Dem Group Leader, Cllr David Watkins commented: 'Like many others we care passionately about the provision of council homes in the City. We had to challenge this ruling.'

The Councillors may have won the battle, but not the war as Labour and Tory

Councillors then ganged up to defeat their nomination. 'At least the democratic process was done', Paul added!