Row Over Date Of By-Election

A row has broken out over the date of a by-election in Great Glen.

The poll has been triggered by the resignation of long-serving Conservative district councillor James Hallam.

Harborough District Council has confirmed the election will be held on Wednesday March 19th, but some say it should take place sooner.

Cllr Phil King (CON), who represents Kibworth, says democracy is being delayed: “I’m surprised and disappointed that the by-election has been delayed until the very last date permitted by law, despite valid resident requests for one to be held ‘as soon as possible’  on 29th January.

He added diary commitments of the council’s Chief Executive, who also organises elections as the Returning Officer, means the poll cannot take place sooner: “I’m very shocked that the Chief Executive has put his attendance at a conference above that of the democratic rights of local residents.”

The council has hit-back at the comments and says all legal requirements have been complied with in setting the date.

Cllr Phil Knowles, Leader of Harborough District Council said: “I support the Chief Executive in the decision he has taken as Returning Officer regarding the timetable for the Glen by-election.

“As well as responsibility for overseeing elections, the Chief Executive has many pressing priorities, including being at the table at a key conference when Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution will be discussed with key Government Ministers present.

“It is essential that current council business is balanced with the need to protect local government and our local communities in the future.

“I strongly refute the comments about denying democracy in Great Glen that have been made public and will ask that they be reviewed through the Council’s due processes.”

A spokesperson for Harborough District Council said: “The Returning Officer for elections has complied with all the legal requirements in setting the date for the Glen by-election, including the prescribed timescales set out in legislation and Electoral Commission guidance, which states it must be held within 35 working days.”

Anyone wishing to stand in the election has until 4pm on February 20th to submit their nomination forms.

The full list of candidates will be published the day after.

So far, local parish councillor Peter Scott has said he will stand as the Conservative candidate.