Story perspectives

Conservative Leader Suspended After Green-Led Coalition Triggers 9% Tax Rise

5/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Conservative Party headquarters suspended Worcestershire group leader Adam Kent after he brokered a cross-party coalition that toppled Reform UK’s minority administration.
The coalition of Greens, Liberal Democrats, independents and some Conservative councillors installed Green Matt Jenkins as council leader on 14 May 2026, despite Kevin Hollinrake’s warning that the deal lacks party approval.
The council now faces a 9% council-tax rise and £59.9 million in emergency aid to avoid bankruptcy.

History

Historical Context

In 1999 the first Scottish Parliament election gave Labour 56 of 129 seats and the Liberal Democrats 17, prompting Donald Dewar and Jim Wallace to form a Labour-Liberal Democrat coalition government. The partnership was renewed after the 2003 election, with Wallace serving as Deputy First Minister, establishing a precedent for later UK local councils to seek cross-party alliances.

1 of 2

Story summary

Conservative Party headquarters suspended Worcestershire group leader Adam Kent after he brokered a cross-party coalition that toppled Reform UK’s minority administration.
The coalition of Greens, Liberal Democrats, independents and some Conservative councillors installed Green Matt Jenkins as council leader on 14 May 2026, despite Kevin Hollinrake’s warning that the deal lacks party approval.
The council now faces a 9% council-tax rise and £59.9 million in emergency aid to avoid bankruptcy.

1 / 2