Conservatives Bid to Seize Leadership at Harborough District Council

The Conservatives have launched a bid to take control of Harborough District Council.

They have tabled a motion to remove Lib Dem leader Phil Knowles – who heads the ruling coalition – and replace him with opposition leader Simon Whelband.

The motion argues that the coalition no longer has an effective majority, has recently been unable to pass its own business, and that leadership of the council should now go to the largest political group.

Cllr Simon Whelband

Cllr Knowles has described the move as an “attempted power grab” and said the coalition “has an incredible record of delivering for the community.”

An extraordinary council meeting is expected to debate and vote on the proposal next month.

Cllr Whelband spoke to HFM:

Cllr Phil Knowles

Cllr Knowles said the coalition’s record speaks for itself, highlighting investments in leisure centres, community grants and other local services, as well as reducing council tax.

The group did suffer a set-back last month after councillors refused to approve its full budget proposals.

Amendments from the Conservatives were voted through.

Earlier this week a vote to push forward a new Local Plan for the district was approved by a narrow majority.

Cllr Knowles told HFM the coalition intends to continue delivering for residents of the district:

No party currently has overall political control of the tightly-balanced council and the coalition has been in power since 2023.

The Conservatives hold 16 seats, which matches the 16-strong coalition, made up of nine Liberal Democrat councillors, three Labour members, three Greens, and an independent.

Another independent councillor is not affiliated to any political party and there is also a Reform UK member.

The motion requests the following:

• Removal of Leader: Cllr Phil Knowles would be removed with immediate effect.

• Election of New Leader: Cllr Simon Whelband would take over as council leader.

• Deputy Leader and Cabinet Appointments: Cllr Whelband would confirm deputy leader and cabinet positions.

• Other Appointments: Remaining roles would be delegated to the new leader.