Rutland Council Leader Survives No Confidence Vote Amid Local Government Reorganisation

Gale Waller, leader of Rutland County Council, survived a vote of no confidence initiated by the Conservative group amid controversy over local government reorganisation plans. The Conservatives, led by Lucy Stephenson, criticized Waller for a perceived lack of transparency and consultation with residents regarding proposals that could see Rutland merged into larger unitary authorities, potentially ending its independent status. The Labour government's proposed reform aims to merge smaller councils into bodies representing populations of around 500,000, while Rutland's population is about 40,000, making its independence unlikely. Rutland and Stamford Conservative MP Alicia Kearns supported the no-confidence motion, arguing for more public consultation and multiple options for reorganisation to be considered. Waller defended her position as based on advice from council officers and emphasized ongoing discussions with neighbouring councils about future arrangements. The vote concluded with 14 councillors supporting Waller's leadership, eight voting against, and two abstentions.