A spokesperson for the Alliance group of councillors has hit out at claims made by leader of the Conservative group of councillors.
Earlier today, Councillor Suzie Ellis explained why her group believe there needs to be a change of leadership at Isle of Wight council – where the current leadership were voted in by the electorate in May 2021.
“A simple grab for power”
In response to the statement, a spokesperson for the Alliance group told News OnTheWight,
“The statement made by Councillor Ellis proves beyond doubt that the Conservatives are making a simple grab for power.
“There have been no discussions with Councillors from ‘across the Chamber’ other than the Empowering Islanders group.
“The aims Councillor Ellis has listed are all work currently being undertaken by the Alliance Administration, which to date has generally either had little assistance from the Conservatives or which they have actively tried to disrupt.”
Secondary school closures?
The Alliance spokesperson hinted that under Conservative rule, there may be plans to close not just nine primary schools, but also secondary schools.
They went on to say,
“The only difference is the hidden agenda to pursue closure of up to nine schools including, it seems, some of our secondary schools (the ‘difficult decisions’ she alludes to), and the fact that Councillor Ellis will be beholden to the direction and wishes of Councillor Jarman and his Nimby Empowering Islanders group.”
