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Labour Defector Boosts Lib Dems, Sparks By-Election Call

5/22/2025

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Summary

Bhartwas Switches Parties

Cllr Tina Bhartwas made waves by switching from Labour to the Liberal Democrats just days after her re-election in Letchworth North. Expressing her unease with Labour's national stance and a deepening distrust, her defection boosts the Lib Dems to 32 seats, leaving Labour with only four and sparking demands for a by-election.

Summary

Sankey Tackles Rubbish Chaos

Brighton and Hove Council is grappling with chaos in rubbish collection, as Council leader Bella Sankey points to intimidation and "gangsterism" among workers, leading to increased missed pickups. In contrast, Stockton Council leaders defend their engagement with residents over Yarm High Street improvements, countering MP Matt Vickers' accusations of inadequate consultation.

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Bhartwas Switches Parties

Cllr Tina Bhartwas made waves by switching from Labour to the Liberal Democrats just days after her re-election in Letchworth North. Expressing her unease with Labour's national stance and a deepening distrust, her defection boosts the Lib Dems to 32 seats, leaving Labour with only four and sparking demands for a by-election.

1 / 2