Liberal Democrats suspend councillor (Southwark Liberal Democrats)

Southwark Liberal Democrats <info@southwark-libdems.org.uk>

Liberal Democrats suspend councillor

November 28, 2006 12:00 PM

Southwark Council's Liberal Democrat group have announced that they have suspended Cathedrals Ward councillor Danny McCarthy.

Liberal Democrat Group Chair Cllr James Gurling commented:

"As many people are aware, Danny has made a number of statements over a period of time which have given cause for concern."

"Danny has twice been asked to clarify the situation but - despite making positive sounds - has not yet felt able to put the issue beyond doubt by providing the clear statement of commitment to Group loyalty and responsibility required of him by Group Officers."

"Danny has asked for more time to consider his future and we have been happy to allow him the space he feels that he needs. After a careful and considered discussion last night the members of the Group voted unanimously in favour of suspending him from membership of the Group with immediate effect. This suspension will be lifted as soon as he provides a statement of commitment to the Liberal Democrat group."

"Danny has been a stalwart of the Group for many years. He has twice been elected as a Liberal Democrat - most recently only 6 months ago. I very much hope that he will conclude that his place remains within the Liberal Democrat Group, not least so that he can continue to play his part in the Administration's programme of regenerating the borough, bring power down to local people through Community Councils, building schools for the future, providing 21st century leisure facilities, doubling recycling rates and keeping council tax down."