Independent defection hands Southend Council back to Tories (From Southend Standard)

jayman says...
10:56am Thu 21 Mar 13

don't worry. the Tories will be handing the power right back again very soon..

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stopmoaning1 says...
11:06am Thu 21 Mar 13

Shouldn’t there be another election for her ward then. Surely the people who voted for her did so for her Independent manifesto. If they wanted to elect a Tory, they would have done so at the time.
How can it be right that she suddenly announces she’s now joining another party but stays in post?

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Speedysnail says...
11:31am Thu 21 Mar 13

Sack her from her post. She was elected as an independent. Disgusting that she should be allowed to do this.

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the citizen says...
11:31am Thu 21 Mar 13

How dare she swap without an electoral mandate. So....one councillor decides for herself with no sense of accountability to her constituents wishes to swap parties. There should be an immediate election in that ward to see if her constituents want to be represented by a Tory. Otherwise democracy is dead. She is an elected representative and she had a reasonable majority who wanted to be represented by someone who wasn't a Tory. She should not be allowed to stand for another party without a mandate from her constituents. What an atrocious abuse of power. Sorry Alex.......either step down completely, or put yourself forward for re-election straight away.

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Red Under Your Bed says...
11:36am Thu 21 Mar 13

Then there should be another local election for her place on the council. She was not elected as a tory, she was elected as an independent.

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John T Pharro says...
11:48am Thu 21 Mar 13

the citizen wrote:
How dare she swap without an electoral mandate. So....one councillor decides for herself with no sense of accountability to her constituents wishes to swap parties. There should be an immediate election in that ward to see if her constituents want to be represented by a Tory. Otherwise democracy is dead. She is an elected representative and she had a reasonable majority who wanted to be represented by someone who wasn't a Tory. She should not be allowed to stand for another party without a mandate from her constituents. What an atrocious abuse of power. Sorry Alex.......either step down completely, or put yourself forward for re-election straight away.

Could not agree more with comments like this. We in Castle Point have a County Councillor Brian Wood who was elected as a Canvey Island Independent Councillor than declared himself a UKIP member. We also have two other Councillors that declared themselves Independents after being elected Canvey Independent Councillors. In all these incidents they should resign and then stand again for reelection. It is particularly unpalatable in this circumstance when a party becomes the controlling political party.
I totally fail to understand what difficulty she had in being independent. Surely as an independent she could have voted anyway she thought correct, now she will toe the Tory Whip. Should be ashamed of herself.

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apapa palm says...
11:59am Thu 21 Mar 13

This is a total disgrace. How big was the envelope i ask. Turncoat

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Ian P says...
12:03pm Thu 21 Mar 13

John T Pharro wrote:

the citizen wrote: How dare she swap without an electoral mandate. So....one councillor decides for herself with no sense of accountability to her constituents wishes to swap parties. There should be an immediate election in that ward to see if her constituents want to be represented by a Tory. Otherwise democracy is dead. She is an elected representative and she had a reasonable majority who wanted to be represented by someone who wasn't a Tory. She should not be allowed to stand for another party without a mandate from her constituents. What an atrocious abuse of power. Sorry Alex.......either step down completely, or put yourself forward for re-election straight away.
Could not agree more with comments like this. We in Castle Point have a County Councillor Brian Wood who was elected as a Canvey Island Independent Councillor than declared himself a UKIP member. We also have two other Councillors that declared themselves Independents after being elected Canvey Independent Councillors. In all these incidents they should resign and then stand again for reelection. It is particularly unpalatable in this circumstance when a party becomes the controlling political party. I totally fail to understand what difficulty she had in being independent. Surely as an independent she could have voted anyway she thought correct, now she will toe the Tory Whip. Should be ashamed of herself.

Castle Point had an MP who wore three different hats during the same term of office.

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leighman says...
12:39pm Thu 21 Mar 13

And if she had defected to the English Democrats or BNP, she would still be able to hold her position ?? No..Thought not.

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jayman says...
12:50pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Her undemocratic decision makes a mockery of the political system and shows complete contempt for the electorate. This is also telling of the Tories who have welcomed her and their attitudes to the residents of Southend.

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geriatric says...
12:55pm Thu 21 Mar 13

I am a voter in Thorpe Ward. When Mrs Kaye put up as an Independent as a former Tory, she assured us that she was a genuine Independent and determined to stay that way. It is crystal clear that Thorpe voters want Independent Councillors, all of our Councillors were vote in as Independents with good majorities. This is a disgrace and verging on the dishonest. She should resign immediately. She will not be re-elected, either now or if she brazens it out to the next election.

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siddymint says...
12:58pm Thu 21 Mar 13

by changing its beleived she has gianed or held on to a cahirmanship that comes with nice pay .
i note the echo hasn't mentioned this proberbly cause its not true , or is it ?

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Nebs says...
1:01pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Does this mean that Max Impact will have to pay his £20,000 winnings back to his bookie?

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ORACUS says...
1:08pm Thu 21 Mar 13

This should not be allowed simply because of the possibility of corruption.
Not saying that’s what’s happened here.
Do we want a system that would allow a politicians allegiance to be bought.
When power can be bought contrary to the voice of the electorate then democracy is dead.

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Sir Peter Pantsless the 3rd says...
1:35pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Alex, we (and I) voted for you because we wanted you to represent us as an independent.

You have let us all down.

You do realise you have put paid to any further re-election now dont you?
Come next election you career as a councillor will be over for sure.

Once a tory always a tory!

As it's been said (not just) here on this forum, Never trust a tory!

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Alfiee says...
1:35pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Oh well only have to wait till the May Elections then UKIP Will sweep the board. As Lib/Lab and Cons have all done nothing so time for a change to get what is ours back.

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emcee says...
1:53pm Thu 21 Mar 13

What a ridiculous excuse for giving up her independence.
If she is disillusioned with the independent group, leave the group. Simple. That is the whole point of being an independent. Not to belong to any one party or group. The lone voice of an independent is always hard in politics but at least you do not have to tow a party line. Your voice is yours and that of your ward electorate.
This silly woman has just cut of her nose to spite her face and the elctorate will see that she is a weak councillor. Unable to stand for her own beliefs unless she has a major political party to prop her up.

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Nebs says...
2:14pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Actions like this should initiate a by-election.

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southendshrimper says...
2:22pm Thu 21 Mar 13

jayman wrote:
don't worry. the Tories will be handing the power right back again very soon..

Bet your not happy now are you. Who you going to blame for her changing partys? The Tories, Southend Airport, Stobarts? So have you put your claim in for compo from the thriving airport?

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siddymint says...
2:30pm Thu 21 Mar 13

by changing its beleived she has gianed or held on to a cahirmanship that comes with nice pay .
i note the echo hasn't mentioned this proberbly cause its not true , or is it ?

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jayman says...
2:40pm Thu 21 Mar 13

southendshrimper wrote:

jayman wrote:
don't worry. the Tories will be handing the power right back again very soon..
Bet your not happy now are you. Who you going to blame for her changing partys? The Tories, Southend Airport, Stobarts? So have you put your claim in for compo from the thriving airport?

I will be over the moon when Southend is run properly.

I would like to see the establishment of a 'Southend party' where the wishes of Southend residents are respected and where all major spending decisions are first put before the public.

Give me one single example of where (in recent times) southends Tory administration have acted on the wishes of Southend residents through the process of direct petition in relation to major spending from the public purse...

if you need a further clue. its called 'democracy'

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Shoebury_Cyclist says...
2:48pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Never. Trust. A. Tory.

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Shoebury_Cyclist says...
2:50pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Alfiee wrote:
Oh well only have to wait till the May Elections then UKIP Will sweep the board. As Lib/Lab and Cons have all done nothing so time for a change to get what is ours back.

Voting UKIP because you don't like LibDems, Labour, or Tories, is like drinking urine because you don't like Coke, Pepsi, or Irn Bru.

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Sean4u says...
3:08pm Thu 21 Mar 13

I was living overseas when our regional government was overthrown by defections with the usual rumours of inducements and extortion. There was nothing that could be done there due to a Constitutional right of freedom of association. It still seems odd to me though that the ballot form we all sign that shows a person's political affiliation is not deemed a contract and the elected person not deemed to be in breach of contract by changing affiliation mid appointment.

It is is obviously very disappointing for those who elected her on the basis of her declared affiliation - it would delight me to discover that something like 'breach of contract' could be applied in a case such as this in the UK.

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geriatric says...
3:18pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Ron Woodley, please get us a proper independent next time. No more charlatans.

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Displeased of Shoebury says...
3:18pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Madam resign then put up for election. You have let down those who voted for you.

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sjreynolds143 says...
3:28pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Whatever you think of it, we have a representative democracy in this country. That means that you vote for a person - not a party - who you think will best represent your interests or views in the national or, as in this case local, government. Once they are there, they can do vote however they like on whatever they like - they don't have to follow your views just because you elected them.

And that means that she doesn't have to resign and have an election just because she has decided to join or leave a political grouping.

Of course, if you think that this is not what you expected from her, then you are right to feel aggrieved, and right to make your views known to her. But your only other option is to remember that the next time she stands, and to judge accordingly.

- - -

Incidentally, in amongst all the enthusiastic Tory bashing, perhaps someone might like to consider why she feels she has to do this. Could it be that the "independent" group isn't a collection of independent individuals, but actually a party by another name...?

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jayman says...
4:04pm Thu 21 Mar 13

sjreynolds143 wrote:
Whatever you think of it, we have a representative democracy in this country. That means that you vote for a person - not a party - who you think will best represent your interests or views in the national or, as in this case local, government. Once they are there, they can do vote however they like on whatever they like - they don't have to follow your views just because you elected them.

And that means that she doesn't have to resign and have an election just because she has decided to join or leave a political grouping.

Of course, if you think that this is not what you expected from her, then you are right to feel aggrieved, and right to make your views known to her. But your only other option is to remember that the next time she stands, and to judge accordingly.

- - -

Incidentally, in amongst all the enthusiastic Tory bashing, perhaps someone might like to consider why she feels she has to do this. Could it be that the "independent" group isn't a collection of independent individuals, but actually a party by another name...?

"Once they are there, they can do vote however they like on whatever they like - they don't have to follow your views just because you elected them."

I sincerely hope that you are in no way an elected representative.

what you describe is nothing more then a four year dictatorship.

The very constitution of our democracy enables voters to petition elected representatives. In the view of democracy this is vital to the process.

independent political movements are also vital to a healthy democracy.

The Tory party do not stand for democracy nor do they stand of anyone else other then themselves, there own self severing interests or the interest of influential forces that assist them in maintaining power through the charade of a semi-democratic process that they merely 'tolerate' as an obstruction to there right wing, misanthropic and Utilitarian ideals...

[quote][p][bold]sjreynolds143[/bold] wrote: Whatever you think of it, we have a representative democracy in this country. That means that you vote for a person - not a party - who you think will best represent your interests or views in the national or, as in this case local, government. Once they are there, they can do vote however they like on whatever they like - they don't have to follow your views just because you elected them. And that means that she doesn't have to resign and have an election just because she has decided to join or leave a political grouping. Of course, if you think that this is not what you expected from her, then you are right to feel aggrieved, and right to make your views known to her. But your only other option is to remember that the next time she stands, and to judge accordingly. - - - Incidentally, in amongst all the enthusiastic Tory bashing, perhaps someone might like to consider why she feels she has to do this. Could it be that the "independent" group isn't a collection of independent individuals, but actually a party by another name...?[/p][/quote]"Once they are there, they can do vote however they like on whatever they like - they don't have to follow your views just because you elected them." I sincerely hope that you are in no way an elected representative. what you describe is nothing more then a four year dictatorship. The very constitution of our democracy enables voters to petition elected representatives. In the view of democracy this is vital to the process. independent political movements are also vital to a healthy democracy. The Tory party do not stand for democracy nor do they stand of anyone else other then themselves, there own self severing interests or the interest of influential forces that assist them in maintaining power through the charade of a semi-democratic process that they merely 'tolerate' as an obstruction to there right wing, misanthropic and Utilitarian ideals... jayman

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Alfiee says...
4:07pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Shoebury_Cyclist wrote:

Alfiee wrote:
Oh well only have to wait till the May Elections then UKIP Will sweep the board. As Lib/Lab and Cons have all done nothing so time for a change to get what is ours back.
Voting UKIP because you don't like LibDems, Labour, or Tories, is like drinking urine because you don't like Coke, Pepsi, or Irn Bru.

Sorry but they have done nothing for us at all just lied and lied sold us down the river. Time for a change. I am entitled to an opinion and that is mine. We need change for my Grandchildren, my Grandfather never fought for this I know. I would like to see the Great back in Britain.

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shoeburylad says...
4:23pm Thu 21 Mar 13

geriatric wrote:
Ron Woodley, please get us a proper independent next time. No more charlatans.

Are you actually suggesting that Ron Woodley has to vet anyone who wants to stand as an Independent in Thorpe Bay. He sounds like a control freak.

I'm sure I read that another Independent left their group not so long ago. It begs the question why are their councillors deserting?

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the citizen says...
4:24pm Thu 21 Mar 13

sjreynolds143 wrote:
Whatever you think of it, we have a representative democracy in this country. That means that you vote for a person - not a party - who you think will best represent your interests or views in the national or, as in this case local, government. Once they are there, they can do vote however they like on whatever they like - they don't have to follow your views just because you elected them.

And that means that she doesn't have to resign and have an election just because she has decided to join or leave a political grouping.

Of course, if you think that this is not what you expected from her, then you are right to feel aggrieved, and right to make your views known to her. But your only other option is to remember that the next time she stands, and to judge accordingly.

- - -

Incidentally, in amongst all the enthusiastic Tory bashing, perhaps someone might like to consider why she feels she has to do this. Could it be that the "independent" group isn't a collection of independent individuals, but actually a party by another name...?

...and the people of Thorpe voted for someone who said she would represent them as an Independent and standing against a Tory. Therefore, in electing her, the electorate wanted someone who would be independent. To suddenly change means that you no longer have that mandate as you no longer have the support of the majority. This lady expressed views that were what the majority of people wanted. To turn your back on that AND the people you represent is abhorrent to an electorate to whom you are accountable. She should (if she had any conscience) immediately submit herself for re-election. In the Thorpe Ward there should be a vote of no confidence and an election held.If the people of Thorpe want a Tory let them vote for one. If they wish to retain an Independent then that is what they should have the opportunity to vote for...again.

[quote][p][bold]sjreynolds143[/bold] wrote: Whatever you think of it, we have a representative democracy in this country. That means that you vote for a person - not a party - who you think will best represent your interests or views in the national or, as in this case local, government. Once they are there, they can do vote however they like on whatever they like - they don't have to follow your views just because you elected them. And that means that she doesn't have to resign and have an election just because she has decided to join or leave a political grouping. Of course, if you think that this is not what you expected from her, then you are right to feel aggrieved, and right to make your views known to her. But your only other option is to remember that the next time she stands, and to judge accordingly. - - - Incidentally, in amongst all the enthusiastic Tory bashing, perhaps someone might like to consider why she feels she has to do this. Could it be that the "independent" group isn't a collection of independent individuals, but actually a party by another name...?[/p][/quote]...and the people of Thorpe voted for someone who said she would represent them as an Independent and standing against a Tory. Therefore, in electing her, the electorate wanted someone who would be independent. To suddenly change means that you no longer have that mandate as you no longer have the support of the majority. This lady expressed views that were what the majority of people wanted. To turn your back on that AND the people you represent is abhorrent to an electorate to whom you are accountable. She should (if she had any conscience) immediately submit herself for re-election. In the Thorpe Ward there should be a vote of no confidence and an election held.If the people of Thorpe want a Tory let them vote for one. If they wish to retain an Independent then that is what they should have the opportunity to vote for...again. the citizen

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Joe Wildman-Clark says...
6:54pm Thu 21 Mar 13

shoeburylad wrote:

geriatric wrote:
Ron Woodley, please get us a proper independent next time. No more charlatans.
Are you actually suggesting that Ron Woodley has to vet anyone who wants to stand as an Independent in Thorpe Bay. He sounds like a control freak.

I'm sure I read that another Independent left their group not so long ago. It begs the question why are their councillors deserting?

Why not an independent who is a true independent and not aligned to an independent group!

Why have the "independents" got a spokesperson when they are supposed to be independent.

An independent has to be just that independent vote they way they see will help the most, be that with the Troy, labour, Lib Dem, "independents" or on their own.

"independent" or Independent.

The independent group need to learn the meaning of the word.

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councillor says...
7:18pm Thu 21 Mar 13

In the present opposition Independent group of 10 , three Councillors including Cllr Kaye allegedly, according to public, are signed up side kicks of Cllr Holdcroft, holding chairmanships and beefing up their income, ,,
Now Tories, got the majority, 26 Councillors out of 51in the Chamber,, Council leader is magnanimous not reverting back to old system , , is keeping them in their Jobs still, Will the independents voluntarily surrender their jobs to c
I wonder who will be the legitimate opposition leader .in the new council
It is interesting to watch .

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southchurch bob says...
7:42pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Bottom line is she should resign now and an election take place forthwith then put herself forward as a Conservative. Job done.

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lucy10 says...
7:46pm Thu 21 Mar 13

i understand they were glad she has gone no one like her. and she will be gone again next may to the job center

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councillor says...
8:12pm Thu 21 Mar 13

In the present opposition Independent group of 10 , three Councillors including Cllr Kaye allegedly, according to public, are signed up side kicks of Cllr Holdcroft, holding chairmanships and beefing up their income, ,,
Now Tories, got the majority, 26 Councillors out of 51in the Chamber,, Council leader is magnanimous not reverting back to old system , , is keeping them in their Jobs still, Will the independents voluntarily surrender their jobs to council leader?
I wonder who will be the legitimate opposition leader .in the new council
It is interesting to watch .

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councillor says...
8:12pm Thu 21 Mar 13

In the present opposition Independent group of 10 , three Councillors including Cllr Kaye allegedly, according to public, are signed up side kicks of Cllr Holdcroft, holding chairmanships and beefing up their income, ,,
Now Tories, got the majority, 26 Councillors out of 51in the Chamber,, Council leader is magnanimous not reverting back to old system , , is keeping them in their Jobs still, Will the independents voluntarily surrender their jobs to council leader?
I wonder who will be the legitimate opposition leader .in the new council
It is interesting to watch .

Report this post »

councillor says...
8:12pm Thu 21 Mar 13

In the present opposition Independent group of 10 , three Councillors including Cllr Kaye allegedly, according to public, are signed up side kicks of Cllr Holdcroft, holding chairmanships and beefing up their income, ,,
Now Tories, got the majority, 26 Councillors out of 51in the Chamber,, Council leader is magnanimous not reverting back to old system , , is keeping them in their Jobs still, Will the independents voluntarily surrender their jobs to council leader?
I wonder who will be the legitimate opposition leader .in the new council
It is interesting to watch .

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asbo in a coma says...
9:10pm Thu 21 Mar 13

haha. i pity all the mugs that voted for her. NOT!

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asbo in a coma says...
9:14pm Thu 21 Mar 13

don't talk about brown envelopes. ron the inflatable dartboard woodley will be drooling

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Devils Advocate says...
10:37pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Why did Screaming Lord Sutch never think of this? Not to mention Karl Marx.... or perhaps the Marx brothers?

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heartbeat says...
10:46pm Thu 21 Mar 13

the citizen wrote:

sjreynolds143 wrote:
Whatever you think of it, we have a representative democracy in this country. That means that you vote for a person - not a party - who you think will best represent your interests or views in the national or, as in this case local, government. Once they are there, they can do vote however they like on whatever they like - they don't have to follow your views just because you elected them.

And that means that she doesn't have to resign and have an election just because she has decided to join or leave a political grouping.

Of course, if you think that this is not what you expected from her, then you are right to feel aggrieved, and right to make your views known to her. But your only other option is to remember that the next time she stands, and to judge accordingly.

- - -

Incidentally, in amongst all the enthusiastic Tory bashing, perhaps someone might like to consider why she feels she has to do this. Could it be that the "independent" group isn't a collection of independent individuals, but actually a party by another name...?
...and the people of Thorpe voted for someone who said she would represent them as an Independent and standing against a Tory. Therefore, in electing her, the electorate wanted someone who would be independent. To suddenly change means that you no longer have that mandate as you no longer have the support of the majority. This lady expressed views that were what the majority of people wanted. To turn your back on that AND the people you represent is abhorrent to an electorate to whom you are accountable. She should (if she had any conscience) immediately submit herself for re-election. In the Thorpe Ward there should be a vote of no confidence and an election held.If the people of Thorpe want a Tory let them vote for one. If they wish to retain an Independent then that is what they should have the opportunity to vote for...again.

Absolutely. It's a disgrace and makes a complete mockery if I (or anyone else) vote for an Independent and end up with a never-trust-a-TORY. Would there not be an outcry if a Tory Councillor defected to Labour, or the Monster Raving Loony Party? It's quite unbelievable! Our votes are supposed to be of great value and campaigns are run to make everyone realise how important our votes are - not when this happens they're not!!!

I really hope Ron Woodley, who has done amazing things for Thorpe Ward, gets onto this and can somehow force another election. Of course if she had any decency whatsoever the woman would realise that, but of course she's a Tory, enough said.

[quote][p][bold]the citizen[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]sjreynolds143[/bold] wrote: Whatever you think of it, we have a representative democracy in this country. That means that you vote for a person - not a party - who you think will best represent your interests or views in the national or, as in this case local, government. Once they are there, they can do vote however they like on whatever they like - they don't have to follow your views just because you elected them. And that means that she doesn't have to resign and have an election just because she has decided to join or leave a political grouping. Of course, if you think that this is not what you expected from her, then you are right to feel aggrieved, and right to make your views known to her. But your only other option is to remember that the next time she stands, and to judge accordingly. - - - Incidentally, in amongst all the enthusiastic Tory bashing, perhaps someone might like to consider why she feels she has to do this. Could it be that the "independent" group isn't a collection of independent individuals, but actually a party by another name...?[/p][/quote]...and the people of Thorpe voted for someone who said she would represent them as an Independent and standing against a Tory. Therefore, in electing her, the electorate wanted someone who would be independent. To suddenly change means that you no longer have that mandate as you no longer have the support of the majority. This lady expressed views that were what the majority of people wanted. To turn your back on that AND the people you represent is abhorrent to an electorate to whom you are accountable. She should (if she had any conscience) immediately submit herself for re-election. In the Thorpe Ward there should be a vote of no confidence and an election held.If the people of Thorpe want a Tory let them vote for one. If they wish to retain an Independent then that is what they should have the opportunity to vote for...again.[/p][/quote]Absolutely. It's a disgrace and makes a complete mockery if I (or anyone else) vote for an Independent and end up with a never-trust-a-TORY. Would there not be an outcry if a Tory Councillor defected to Labour, or the Monster Raving Loony Party? It's quite unbelievable! Our votes are supposed to be of great value and campaigns are run to make everyone realise how important our votes are - not when this happens they're not!!! I really hope Ron Woodley, who has done amazing things for Thorpe Ward, gets onto this and can somehow force another election. Of course if she had any decency whatsoever the woman would realise that, but of course she's a Tory, enough said. heartbeat

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Nebs says...
10:57pm Thu 21 Mar 13

Maybe this is a trial run for the next local elections. The Tories know they won't stand a chance, so they will get all their lackeys to stand as independent candidates and, if elected, they can then move across to the Tory benches.

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fletch12107 says...
8:16am Fri 22 Mar 13

This woman is a complete joke and should leave local politics to the grown ups. She has just chaired the Task and Finishing group that have recommended the closure of Priory House care and dementia home. Shame really as she may need a bed there soon because she has already forgotten what she stood for in the local elections..

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Broadwaywatch says...
10:51am Fri 22 Mar 13

fletch12107 wrote:
This woman is a complete joke and should leave local politics to the grown ups. She has just chaired the Task and Finishing group that have recommended the closure of Priory House care and dementia home. Shame really as she may need a bed there soon because she has already forgotten what she stood for in the local elections..

A cutting reply but I have to confess.....very neatly done.

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stopmoaning1 says...
3:09pm Fri 22 Mar 13

I believe local councillors addresses are publicly available. Everybody who voted for her should now write to her expressing their disgust and, (being careful of harassment laws) continue to do so until she gets the message.

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sjreynolds143 says...
5:19pm Fri 22 Mar 13

Jayman (and others), you misunderstand me.

I never said that what she is doing was right, nor that the voters of Thorpe won't be justified in being right royally hacked off. And of course it is right that people can and should petition her. But what I was saying is that we all get one opportunity every 4 years to elect someone we think is going to represent our views, and that's it. If we are badly let down (and don't get me started on that) then we cannot do anything about it until the next time they are up for re-election. And in the meantime, they can vote how they feel that they should - whether you or I agree with it or not.

That, I'm afraid, is the democracy we have.

Of course, alternative voting systems exist, as well as methods of getting (and acting on) the views of your electorate on various issues (e.g. referenda). But we don't have them - even though I personally think that we should.

And no, I'm not an elected member of anything, more's the pity. 'Cos if I were, it wouldn't work like this.

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Soouthchurch59 says...
7:21pm Fri 22 Mar 13

The fickle face of frolictics (sic).

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Carnabackable says...
9:42pm Fri 22 Mar 13

Nebs wrote:
Maybe this is a trial run for the next local elections. The Tories know they won't stand a chance, so they will get all their lackeys to stand as independent candidates and, if elected, they can then move across to the Tory benches.

There's always more than one way to skin a cat...........the future is BLUE

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asbo in a coma says...
10:23pm Fri 22 Mar 13

the future is blue rinse

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shoeburylad says...
10:44pm Fri 22 Mar 13

jayman wrote:
Her undemocratic decision makes a mockery of the political system and shows complete contempt for the electorate. This is also telling of the Tories who have welcomed her and their attitudes to the residents of Southend.

On this basis then jayman will you then also be criticising Cllr Ric Morgan who left the Lib Dems to join the Liberal Party and sits with the 'Independent' Group on the council.

Or is it just another opportunity for you to bash the Tories.

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jayman says...
11:01pm Fri 22 Mar 13

shoeburylad wrote:

jayman wrote:
Her undemocratic decision makes a mockery of the political system and shows complete contempt for the electorate. This is also telling of the Tories who have welcomed her and their attitudes to the residents of Southend.
On this basis then jayman will you then also be criticising Cllr Ric Morgan who left the Lib Dems to join the Liberal Party and sits with the 'Independent' Group on the council.

Or is it just another opportunity for you to bash the Tories.

'Bash the Tories'...

That almost sounds cute.

'banish and disband' more like.
I have a general distrust for anyone who wears a rosette at election time, but I have a special level of distrust for anyone who stands as or votes Tory.

why would anyone want to become a councillor?.

crushing hours (if you bother) no salary (unless you count expenses or sit on a cushy committee ect) and with no support (unless you cant hack it and belong to a party or sell out to one)

answers on a brown envelope please.

Is this the kind of democracy I and many others have fought for?

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John T Pharro says...
7:16am Sat 23 Mar 13

Ian P wrote:

John T Pharro wrote:

the citizen wrote: How dare she swap without an electoral mandate. So....one councillor decides for herself with no sense of accountability to her constituents wishes to swap parties. There should be an immediate election in that ward to see if her constituents want to be represented by a Tory. Otherwise democracy is dead. She is an elected representative and she had a reasonable majority who wanted to be represented by someone who wasn't a Tory. She should not be allowed to stand for another party without a mandate from her constituents. What an atrocious abuse of power. Sorry Alex.......either step down completely, or put yourself forward for re-election straight away.
Could not agree more with comments like this. We in Castle Point have a County Councillor Brian Wood who was elected as a Canvey Island Independent Councillor than declared himself a UKIP member. We also have two other Councillors that declared themselves Independents after being elected Canvey Independent Councillors. In all these incidents they should resign and then stand again for reelection. It is particularly unpalatable in this circumstance when a party becomes the controlling political party. I totally fail to understand what difficulty she had in being independent. Surely as an independent she could have voted anyway she thought correct, now she will toe the Tory Whip. Should be ashamed of herself.
Castle Point had an MP who wore three different hats during the same term of office.

That was wrong as well and he should have stood down. There are precious few politicians who speak out or vote against their party. Teddy Taylor was one and Bernard Braine another. The only time you seem to hear politicians speak out or vote against issues is when they have a massive majority. You either then wonder whether it is a token gesture or pressure to push the issue through on party lines.

[quote][p][bold]Ian P[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]John T Pharro[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]the citizen[/bold] wrote: How dare she swap without an electoral mandate. So....one councillor decides for herself with no sense of accountability to her constituents wishes to swap parties. There should be an immediate election in that ward to see if her constituents want to be represented by a Tory. Otherwise democracy is dead. She is an elected representative and she had a reasonable majority who wanted to be represented by someone who wasn't a Tory. She should not be allowed to stand for another party without a mandate from her constituents. What an atrocious abuse of power. Sorry Alex.......either step down completely, or put yourself forward for re-election straight away.[/p][/quote]Could not agree more with comments like this. We in Castle Point have a County Councillor Brian Wood who was elected as a Canvey Island Independent Councillor than declared himself a UKIP member. We also have two other Councillors that declared themselves Independents after being elected Canvey Independent Councillors. In all these incidents they should resign and then stand again for reelection. It is particularly unpalatable in this circumstance when a party becomes the controlling political party. I totally fail to understand what difficulty she had in being independent. Surely as an independent she could have voted anyway she thought correct, now she will toe the Tory Whip. Should be ashamed of herself.[/p][/quote]Castle Point had an MP who wore three different hats during the same term of office.[/p][/quote]That was wrong as well and he should have stood down. There are precious few politicians who speak out or vote against their party. Teddy Taylor was one and Bernard Braine another. The only time you seem to hear politicians speak out or vote against issues is when they have a massive majority. You either then wonder whether it is a token gesture or pressure to push the issue through on party lines. John T Pharro

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Broadwaywatch says...
11:45am Sat 23 Mar 13

Sadly it seems this is nothing new in local politics.
If I recall correctly many years a certain Norman Clark was once a Lib/Dem then switch to Conservative and eventually became leader of the Council. Its wrong, wrong, wrong what this woman has done, its deceitful and adds nothing towards trust in local elections. By all means stand down mid term but not hold a seat on the council under another parties banner.

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asbo in a coma says...
12:51pm Sat 23 Mar 13

if you vote for a tory campaigning under an independent banner you only have yourself to blame. anyway could've been worse right...she might have defected to labour with the emphasis on deefect

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Devils Advocate says...
5:33pm Sat 23 Mar 13

Alfiee wrote:

Shoebury_Cyclist wrote:

Alfiee wrote:
Oh well only have to wait till the May Elections then UKIP Will sweep the board. As Lib/Lab and Cons have all done nothing so time for a change to get what is ours back.
Voting UKIP because you don't like LibDems, Labour, or Tories, is like drinking urine because you don't like Coke, Pepsi, or Irn Bru.
Sorry but they have done nothing for us at all just lied and lied sold us down the river. Time for a change. I am entitled to an opinion and that is mine. We need change for my Grandchildren, my Grandfather never fought for this I know. I would like to see the Great back in Britain.

Whilst not favouring you political party, I do totally support your view regarding our forefathers and would love to see a couple of "Englishman" bring some of the money and the work they have stolen from their compatriots here. Please somebody work on making Britain great for the British people once again!

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Blackblood says...
12:30pm Sun 24 Mar 13

Carnabackable wrote:

Nebs wrote:
Maybe this is a trial run for the next local elections. The Tories know they won't stand a chance, so they will get all their lackeys to stand as independent candidates and, if elected, they can then move across to the Tory benches.
There's always more than one way to skin a cat...........the future is BLUE

I'm with Charlie Brooker when it comes to Tories. He said:

"The Tory party is an eternally irritating force for wrong that appeals exclusively to bigots, toffs, money-minded machine men, faded entertainers, and selfish grasping simpletons who were born with some essential part of their soul missing."

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asbo in a coma says...
2:18pm Sun 24 Mar 13

too much vitriol in the community already

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Nebs says...
8:58am Mon 25 Mar 13

Blackblood wrote:

Carnabackable wrote:

Nebs wrote:
Maybe this is a trial run for the next local elections. The Tories know they won't stand a chance, so they will get all their lackeys to stand as independent candidates and, if elected, they can then move across to the Tory benches.
There's always more than one way to skin a cat...........the future is BLUE
I'm with Charlie Brooker when it comes to Tories. He said:

"The Tory party is an eternally irritating force for wrong that appeals exclusively to bigots, toffs, money-minded machine men, faded entertainers, and selfish grasping simpletons who were born with some essential part of their soul missing."

Luckily we have Labour as an alternative. All Labour politicians are open-minded on every subject, all come from working class backgrounds, all fully understand money and economics and will be able to sort out the economy in a month, and always think of how they can help others before they help themselves.
If they'd won the last election then Ed Balls would have sorted out the economy and the deficit, while still having enough left over to give everyone a job, a pay rise, and a three bed semi.

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Rochford Rob says...
8:22pm Mon 25 Mar 13

Luckily we have Labour as an alternative. All Labour politicians are open-minded on every subject, all come from working class backgrounds, all fully understand money and economics and will be able to sort out the economy in a month, and always think of how they can help others before they help themselves.
If they'd won the last election then Ed Balls would have sorted out the economy and the deficit, while still having enough left over to give everyone a job, a pay rise, and a three bed semi.

I do hope that post came with a massive irony overload. If not, well....I'd suggest you were deluded with no grasp of reality. a.k.a a socialist.

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Devils Advocate says...
9:07pm Mon 25 Mar 13

Rochford Rob wrote:
Luckily we have Labour as an alternative. All Labour politicians are open-minded on every subject, all come from working class backgrounds, all fully understand money and economics and will be able to sort out the economy in a month, and always think of how they can help others before they help themselves.
If they'd won the last election then Ed Balls would have sorted out the economy and the deficit, while still having enough left over to give everyone a job, a pay rise, and a three bed semi.

I do hope that post came with a massive irony overload. If not, well....I'd suggest you were deluded with no grasp of reality. a.k.a a socialist.

Yes you are right. Most socialists are deluded. Raised the standard of living for the working classes, invented a service called the national health, invented the council house which gave working classes a chance to have a decent life living in a decent house, and, if you care to look for yourself, did some wonderful work with some of the Nationalised industries, including the best power and transmission of energy anywhere in the world. But, as a Tory politician, you keep doing what you do best, character assassination included. And, what is wrong with the working classes? Just because you and your party are totally filled with venom, why insult the people who actually earn the right-wing rulers their money?

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Independent defection hands Southend Council back to Tories (From Southend Standard)

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Independent defection hands Southend Council back to Tories

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