Robert Mclean leaves Conservatives for Lib Dems

Robert McLean

Robert Mclean, who stood for the Conservative Party at the 2016 Local Elections, has left the local party and is joining the Liberal Democrats.

Mr Mclean said: "This is not a decision I have come to lightly or hastily and have given myself ample time to digest what people have said and recent events.

"I have been concerned by how closely the local Conservative Party aligns with their Labour counterparts, for some time, despite clear issues with this administration and the deep divides in the Labour movement which only prove to hamper the important work of serving local residents. This has obviously come more to the fore following the decision in December's full council meeting, to vote in favour of the increase in allowances, once again backing the Labour administration. I cannot reconcile the principle behind this decision, the council is proposing losing vital jobs and services that could be saved for less money than these increases will cost - I do not believe this fits with one of the main maxims that led me to the party, that of standing up for working people.

"Following these changes, only Oldham and Tameside will spend a higher proportion of their budget on councillor allowances. With the cuts we are seeing this does not strike the right tone of priorities. Since joining the party, one of my main goals has been to break stereotypes in Rochdale about politics and the Conservative Party - yet I feel that decisions like this feed those stereotypes.

"My overall political views have not changed, I remain committed to the principles of responsibility, hard work and fairness, but I feel that in order to maximise these principles and serve local issues for local residents, I need to work with a party committed to local politics above party. This is the reason I have chosen to join the Liberal Democrat team. I have great respect for the stance Andy [Kelly] and Irene [Davidson] have taken in the interest of Rochdale people, despite consistent attack from other parties. I look forward to working with them in serving the town in whatever capacity I can - starting with the campaign to engage the public against this unjust increase in councillor allowances whilst others face losing their jobs.

"I hold no personal animosity to any Conservative member or councillor in the local association, and am grateful for the messages of support I have received. This is a matter of principle and what I believe acts in the best interests of Rochdale."

Local Lib Dem leader, Andy Kelly said: “We’re totally delighted to have Rob on board with us. He’s someone we’ve known about for the last couple of years as a campaigner, and his campaign last year was quite prolific. We are looking forward to working with him.”

Local Conservative leader, Ashley Dearnley said: “There are many who don’t renew their subs but obviously it’s their choice. He’s worked hard for Littleborough campaigning and we wish him well in his future role with his future party.”