Warwickshire Reform UK Names Teenage Finch Permanent Group Leader

George Finch, an 18- to 19-year-old councillor from Reform UK, has been selected as the permanent leader of Warwickshire County Council's Reform group after serving as interim leader following Rob Howard's resignation. Despite Reform UK being the largest party on the council, it does not hold an outright majority, meaning Finch will need support from other parties, particularly the Conservatives, to be officially confirmed as council leader in a full council vote scheduled for July 22. Finch has emphasized priorities such as a comprehensive road renewal plan, improvements to special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) services, education reform focused on skills-based training and apprenticeships, and overseeing local government reorganization to ensure proper representation for Warwickshire residents. His brief interim leadership included controversy over the removal of a Progress Pride flag from Shire Hall, which drew national attention and criticism from opposition politicians, including Labour MP Preet Gill. If confirmed, Finch would be one of Britain's youngest council leaders, managing a substantial budget and council assets. The political dynamics remain delicate as the Reform group lacks a majority and must navigate council votes and alliances to maintain control.