Lib Dem to lead hung council after talks fail

DESPITE his Liberal Democrat party losing its majority in the local elections, Councillor Paul Scriven has been elected leader of Sheffield Council for another year.
By The Newsroom
Published 20th May 2010, 10:44 BST
Updated 20th May 2010, 10:44 BST

At a council meeting yesterday Coun Scriven appointed an all-Lib Dem cabinet after the Labour and Green groups refused to join a coalition.

The Lib Dems now hold exactly half of the 84 seats on Sheffield Council, with Labour on 39, the Greens two, and one independent.

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Coun Scriven said he was "delighted" to be leader for another year and added: "Whilst I'm a little disappointed that councillors of the other parties couldn't agree to serve on the cabinet, I know the team we have will work extremely hard for Sheffield.

"But it is a shame that we couldn't have political parties putting their differences aside and experience the 'new politics' which has broken out in Westminster."

The Labour and Green groups, meanwhile, say they will vote with any party with which they hold common ground.

Labour group leader Jan Wilson said: "Labour are prepared to work with anyone for the good of the city on matters where we share common ground, such as the City of Culture bid, and we will continue to listen to local people, stand up for Sheffield and campaign on Labour values."

Related topics:Liberal DemocratLabourSheffield CouncilSheffield