Lib Dems react to Councillor Peter Rush leaving to join Labour

Anthony Smith and Councillor Andy Kelly

Rochdale Liberal Democrats say it is "very disappointing" that Councillor Peter Rush has left the Liberal Democrats and joined the Labour Party.

Anthony Smith, Lib Dem Parliamentary spokesperson for Heywood and Middleton, said: “Peter has been a Lib Dem councillor for Heywood North for many years and it is of course very disappointing that he has chosen to leave the Liberal Democrats.

"The Liberal Democrats have seen significant growth in members in Heywood and Middleton since the general election and we are committed to continuing to work with and on behalf of its residents.”

Andy Kelly, Lib Dem Councillor for Milnrow and Newhey, said: “I wonder how long Peter will feel at home in a Labour Party that is willing to allow the Conservatives to cut support for thousands of residents of his ward.”

In his resignation letter to the Liberal Democrats, Councillor Rush said: “I am proud of my record of service for the people of Heywood. I still feel I could achieve more and this move is to join the other Heywood councillors and unite the township to give Heywood a stronger voice in Rochdale Town Hall.

“This move will not affect my daily council work which I consider to still be my main objective, nor will it alter my belief of local people before local politics, I feel this will give me the opportunity to achieve even more for the town and its people.” 

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/97136/councillor-peter-rush-joins-labour