A Wokingham councillor has resigned from the Labour party, saying he no longer recognises its core values or its direction.
Alwyn Jones was, until last week, a Labour councillor for Norreys East on Wokingham town council.
His decision was announced at last week’s full council meeting of Wokingham town council.
In the May 2023 local elections he polled 16% of the vote in the ward, and was elected as one of four councillors.
He will continue as an independent councillor.
Speaking exclusively to Wokingham Today, he said: “After 14 years of Conservative rule, I was very pleased that Labour won the general election in July with a significant majority.
“Over the past five months, the Government has made several decisions that I fundamentally do not agree with.
“I joined the Labour Party in the late 1970s and, at the present time, I no longer recognise its core values or its direction.
“I have spoken to residents who run small businesses and pensioners who have worked hard all their lives. They are angry and disappointed with the current situation.
“Based on feedback and my own thoughts, I have decided to step away from the Party, and I shall continue my town council duties as an Independent member.”
Cllr Andy Croy, leader of the Labour group on Wokingham town council, and a fellow Norreys East councillor, told Wokingham Today: “All of our Norreys ward councillors are elected off the back of the hard work of many Labour members over many years.
“Residents can be assured that the Norreys Labour team will continue to do what we do best – working hard in the area for our residents, week in, week out, not just at election time.
“This week alone our councillors and volunteers will be helping to monitor traffic speeds, clear fallen leaves off pavements, pick up litter and clean away graffiti.
“Our work in the ward will continue as normal.”
