Warwickshire County Council faces an unexpected leadership shakeup after its newly elected leader resigned, handing power to his 18-year-old deputy. Reform UK’s Rob Howard stepped down just months after May’s local elections, citing health challenges as the primary reason.
In a brief statement, Howard called the decision difficult but necessary. “The role demands more than I can currently give,” he admitted. His departure leaves George Finch, Britain’s youngest council leader, temporarily in charge until a successor is chosen.
Finch, a former Conservative who defected to Reform over immigration policies, confirmed a leadership contest within a week. “We’re ensuring a fair process,” he stated, avoiding further comment. The move marks a dramatic shift for the council, where Reform became the largest party but lacks a majority.
Labour MP Rachel Taylor voiced alarm over the instability. “Residents need functioning leadership for potholes, care services, and education,” she stressed. Taylor also criticized Howard’s early tenure, noting his absence from key meetings and vague policy direction.
Howard, who previously dismissed doubts about managing the council’s £1.5bn assets, will remain a councillor. “Serving as leader was an honor,” he said, pledging continued work for Warwickshire. Meanwhile, Finch’s rapid rise from a three-month Conservative stint to Reform’s interim leader has drawn scrutiny.
With Finch at the helm temporarily, the council races to stabilize. Observers question whether Reform can maintain cohesion amid internal elections. As Warwickshire watches closely, one thing is clear: the political drama is far from over.
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