LOCAL people have raised concerns about councillor Jane Scott’s decision to continue as Leader of Wiltshire Council despite her recent appointment to the House of Lords.
Following cllr Scott’s announcement that she would continue as leader of the council in Wiltshire, there have been calls for her to resign.
Leader of Wiltshire Council’s Lib Dem group, Jon Hubbard said, “I am delighted for Jane on a personal level as I know that this appointment fulfils one of her ambitions and I’m sure that she will be a real asset to her party’s team in the House of Lords.
“But, that is a major role in itself and I cannot comprehend how she feels it is possible to do that job properly and still continue in the demanding role of leader of Wiltshire Council.
“Whether you agree with her politics or not, few could reasonably disagree that Jane Scott has worked hard for our county over the past 15 years; it would be a shame if she decided to end her career in Wiltshire by becoming known as Two Jobs Jane.”
Cllr Scott, OBE, has served as the leader of Wiltshire Council, and previously West Wilts District Council, for over ten years. It was recently announced that she would be one of 26 Conservative peers to join the House of Lords.
The role is attendance based and could see cllr Scott earn £300 for each day that she spends in the chamber. This would sit on top of her allowance at Wiltshire, which in the 2014/15 year amounted to just under £51,000.
On her recent appointment cllr Scott said, “I see this as a great honour for Wiltshire and I am very much looking forward to taking up this position.
“I have no plans to stand down as leader of Wiltshire Council and will be continuing to work with my cabinet members and senior management team to deliver a number of important projects that will improve both the services and facilities that we provide to the people of Wiltshire.”
Independent councillor for Trowbridge, Jeff Osborn said, “Some say this decision is just pure greed, others that there is a paucity of talent and ambition amongst Conservative councillors. Or it could be that the group is split with deadly rivalry and enmity, so much so that no one member can garner sufficient support.
“Doubtless there are further considerations, but the fundamental problem is that in the coming weeks Wiltshire Council has to make all manner of important decisions. This is hardly the time for part-time leadership.”
