Labour members of North West Leicestershire District Council have been thwarted in their bid to take control of the Council by the casting vote of the Chair after a vote for Council Leader ended in deadlock.

Following the election, earlier this month, Labour emerged as the largest party on the Council with 17 out of the 38 seats – just short of a majority. Their bid to govern as a minority Administration was supported by two independent councillors, but was halted by the Tories, who seemed determined to cling to power, despite losing 10 seats in the election.

Labour Leader, Sean Sheahan, said, “We knew the Tories had a possible route to power, through an alliance with the Lib Dems and two of the Independents, but it looks rather fragile and might not last long. Labour is still the largest single Group and we stand ready to form an Administration if the coalition falters.”

Asked how he feels about coming so close to becoming Leader of the Council, Cllr Sheahan reflected, “I’m the ‘Nearly Man’ this morning but let’s not forget the election saw a substantial swing to Labour and away from the Tories. Last night’s decision went against that tide, mainly due to the Tories being propped up by the Lib Dems. Their supporters must be wondering what they voted for. As for Labour, we have a talented new team who will rapidly gain in experience, and we stand ready to form an Administration, should the current arrangement collapse.”

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