Labour group turmoil ‘played part in Wolverhampton council chief’s exit’
Turmoil within Wolverhampton Council’s Labour group played a role in the departure of managing director Keith Ireland, the city council leader has claimed.
Roger Lawrence said that ‘uncertainty and discord’ among Labour councillors had influenced Mr Ireland’s decision to quit the authority for a similar role at Lincolnshire Council.
Mr Lawrence has led the Labour group for 16 years but was forced to hold off a leadership challenge from Councillor Ian Brookfield on May 4, winning a vote by 28-20.
In an email to Labour group members announcing Mr Ireland’s departure, he wrote: “I want to place on record my thanks to Keith for his role in the transformation of the city.
“You should be aware Keith did not apply for this post until approached and regrettably the uncertainty and discord within the Labour group played a role in his decision.”
However Fallings Park councillor Mr Brookfield said: “I went to see Roger eight weeks ago to say I was challenging for leadership. It was very amicable and part of our democracy.
“For the managing director to move position in that space of time would be unprecedented. I can only assume that Roger is perhaps mistaken in his views.”
Mr Lawrence said: “It is important that members of the group realise that the actions they take have consequences.
“It [the problems in the Labour group] wasn’t the only thing [that led to Mr Ireland leaving], but it was certainly a contributory factor.”
Mr Ireland worked at the council for six years and is credited with spearheading much of the development in the city. He was unavailable for comment.
Meanwhile the Express & Star can also reveal Mr Lawrence has sacked Councillor Milkinder Jaspal from his top team as he prepares to announce his new cabinet next week.
Mr Jaspal’s position as governance chief has gone to Councillor Val Gibson.
Councillor Pete Bilson is set to retain his position as deputy leader, while Louise Miles is expected to take the resources brief.
St Peter’s councillor Lynne Moran has been earmarked as the new education chief, with incumbent Councillor Claire Darke due to be sworn in as deputy mayor.
Councillor Hazel Malcolm, who has served Bushbury North since 2016, is lined up for health.
Ms Samuels has retained a position on the ruling group, while Councillor Alan Bolshaw is the city’s new Labour group secretary.
The new cabinet is set to be officially unveiled on Monday.
