Councillor defects from Labour over 'concerns'

Farzana Aldridge was elected to West Northamptonshire Council for the first time in May

A Labour councillor in Northampton has defected to the Liberal Democrats after becoming "increasingly concerned" with its national leadership.

Farzana Aldridge, who sits on West Northamptonshire Council, said she quit the party because she felt it was moving away from the "community-focused and forward-looking politics" that had inspired her to get involved.

Her defection does not affect the local authority's balance of power, with Reform UK in charge with 41 seats, Labour with eight and Lib Dems with seven.

Aldridge, who was first elected in May, said it had "not been an easy decision".

"Nationally and locally, the party has become increasingly driven by expedient financial and politically-driven solutions, rather than the real and practical needs of residents," she explained.

In her statement, Aldridge did not give examples of Labour decisions either nationally or locally that had concerned her.

She said the Lib Dems shared her belief of "fairness, equality, human rights and passion".

"At a time when politics feels increasingly polarised, the Liberal Democrats' positive and collaborative approach offers me a constructive way forward."

The local Lib Dem group had a "mature approach to leadership", Aldridge said.

Jonathan Harris, leader of the Lib Dem group, said Aldridge cared deeply about her community and would make a great addition to its team.

Leadership challenge

A Labour Party spokesperson said: "Whilst the decision is disappointing, the Labour group in West Northants is focusing on what matters most – delivering for our residents and holding this Reform administration to account.

"And delivery is the focus of this Labour Government too, whether that be cutting NHS waiting lists, giving renters more rights, increasing the minimum wage or giving more children free school meals.

"Labour has a plan for national renewal and, working together, we will deliver a Britain built for all - especially right here in West Northants."

Last week, Health Secretary Wes Streeting voiced his support for Sir Keir Starmer despite briefings that Streeting could mount a leadership challenge.

Supporters of the PM have said removing him from office would create chaos, destabilise the international markets and damage the relationship he has built with US President Donald Trump.