Outraged leaders of Herefordshire Council’s opposition parties have united in snubbing the appointment of a council deputy chief executive to top boss Chris Bull.
Lib Dem leader Councillor Terry James, Independent leader Councillor Bob Matthews and Labour leader Councillor Chris Chappell object to the interview panel for the deputy chief executive’s job being made up only of members of the ruling Conservative group.
The post is for deputy chief of both the council and the Primary Care Trust.
Councillor James, in a letter to Mr Bull, said: “Officers will now be appointees of the Conservative Party and no other party on the council – a sad day for Herefordshire.
“I and my group will take no part in any consultation regarding this appointment as we all know this is only a PR exercise and little or no account is taken of members views, as has clearly been the case in the past. I have no desire to be patronised.”
Councillor Chappell told Mr Bull: “If the traditional consensual method of appointment is to be abandoned, then some members may choose to challenge such an appointment at full council.”
Councillor Matthews, said: “I am appalled at the arrogant attitude of the administration, and particularly considering they have such a small majority (six).
A council statement said: “The council has confirmed the recruitment process is in line with its constitution and follows the usual process for the appointment of directors. Representatives from the political groups are involved in meeting the candidates and their feedback will be taken into account when making the appointment.”
