A fourth councillor in Walsall has quit Reform UK to join a new political group.
Councillor Paul Nugent is now a member of the Walsall People’s Alliance (WPA).
The ward member for Bloxwich West has not confirmed the reason for his departure from Reform UK.
Leader of WPA, Councillor Daniel Rollinson, said the move shows Councillor Nugent’s ‘courage and integrity in standing up for what is right’.
The newly formed WPA is now made up of four members, all of whom were elected as Reform councillors in the May elections but have either quit or been suspended.
Councillor Daniel Rollinson, ward member for New Invention, quit Reform in September and accused the leader, Councillor Elaine Williams, of being a ‘dictator’.
Councillor Bella Simon, ward member for Short Heath, was removed from the group in July, the reason for which was never confirmed.
Councillor Robin Perry, ward member for Harden, Goscote and Ryecroft, was suspended by Reform just days after the May elections.
On his departure Councillor Perry described Walsall Reform as ‘like Mussolini’s government’.
Councillor Rollinson said: “We are delighted to welcome Councillor Paul Nugent to the Walsall People’s Alliance group.
“Councillor Nugent has shown great courage and integrity in standing up for what is right, putting residents first, and joining our mission to bring democracy and transparency back to Walsall Council.
“He is a strong advocate for Bloxwich West, and we look forward to giving him our full backing as he continues to champion the needs of his area and residents.”
Despite the defections, Reform UK still has a majority of 36 members out of 60 at Walsall Council.
Councillor Elaine Williams has been approached for comment.
By Rachel Alexander | Local Democracy Reporting Service
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