Two West Norfolk councillors who feel ‘let down’ by Tory party switch to Reform

West Norfolk Council has undergone a political shake-up with cabinet members changing and Conservatives defecting to Reform.

Two borough councillors have confirmed they have joined Nigel Farage’s party, after they announced they had quit the Tories in February.

Peter Hodson and Julian Kirk, who both represent wards in the Fens, are among three Conservative defectors in the county.

The decision does not affect the political control of the council.

Reform now has four councillors in Norfolk, after Scott Hussey, won a Breckland by-election for the party and Breckland councillor Robin Hunter-Clarke defected.

Peter Hodson, councillor for Denver ward, said: “I feel very let down by the Conservatives. They have broken every single promise.

“We need real change. I think Labour and the Conservatives have become the same thing – high immigration, high taxes, high energy bills because of net zero.

“Only Reform will bring some common sense and I can do a better job of representing my residents in a party I believe in.”

Cllr Alistair Beales, West Norfolk Council leader, has previously said he believes the two councillors should stand for re-election following their change in party.

The council is unusual by being one of the few Independent controlled councils in the county and country.

The coalition, which also includes Liberal Democrats and Green Party members, has been in control since the May 2023 elections.

This week, it was announced that councillor Bal Anota has stepped away from his cabinet role and been replaced by Sue Lintern, who represents the Wissey ward.