Cornwall Council leader in no confidence vote

The vote will be held by councillors on 16 October

More than 40 members of Cornwall Council have signed a motion to remove its leader from office.

Alec Robertson, leader of the Conservative-Independent led unitary authority, is to face a vote of no confidence on 16 October.

It is over a decision to push ahead with plans to part-privatise key council services despite the full council voting against it.

Mr Robertson said the plan would protect jobs.

The privatisation, which the cabinet of the Conservative-Independent led unitary authority said would be part of a "strategic partnership", could affect up to 1,000 council staff.

A report to Cornwall Council Cabinet claimed the contract would save at least £2.5m a year.

Over 40 councillors have signed the motion to try to oust Mr Robertson from office.

'Ignored wishes'

Alex Folkes, the ‏deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats on the council, said: "Reluctantly and sadly I did sign it.

"I feel that the leader has basically ignored the wishes of the elected members far too often.

"The privatisation vote is something that is unforgivable. The majority of councillors voted against this scheme."

Mr Robertson said: "It's taken us two years to get to a place where we feel we can make an informed decision.

"We are managing our financial situation. We are protecting jobs in Cornwall."

At least 62 councillors will need to vote for Mr Robertson to go for the motion to succeed.

If the resolution is passed, a new leader must be elected at the same meeting, head of legal services Richard Williams said.

Conservative Mr Robertson joined the 123-strong council in 2009.