READING’S Conservatives have praised the commitment to Reading of a councillor who has crossed the floor to join Labour.
This morning, we revealed that former mayor, Cllr David Stevens, has left the party after being deselected in the forthcoming May elections. He said this was “because I was too keen to take a constructive and collaborative approach in opposition on the Council”.
The Conservatives have confirmed that he has been deselected due to the boundary changes, and would not be standing in the new Caversham Heights ward.
Group leader Cllr Jeanette Skeats said: “Following a recent Conservative Party selection process, held ahead of the forthcoming Reading Borough Council elections, it is with great regret and sadness that I, as the leader of the Conservative group on the council, have to announce that Cllr David Stevens, was unsuccessful in his bid to be re-selected as a candidate for the new Caversham Heights ward this coming May.
READ MORE: Former mayor leaves Conservatives to join Reading’s ruling Labour group
“This highly regrettable decision was taken despite David serving as a Thames ward councillor for nearly 18 years with great distinction, during which time he gained the respect of colleagues and councillors on all sides of the chamber.”
She also praised Cllr Stevens for his service as mayor during a very difficult period for Reading.
“He has been a superb ambassador for Reading, acting as a highly effective mayor for the last 18 months – representing our town with compassion and sensitivity not only through the aftermath of the Forbury Gardens murders but also throughout the difficulties of the Covid pandemic,” she said.
“David’s commitment to residents and his loyalty, both to the Conservative Party and to the Borough Council, has been invaluable. His experience, attention to detail and his good nature will all be sorely missed.”
And reflecting on Cllr Stevens decision to cross the floor, she said: “Following the recent selection decision, David informed me that after considering his position carefully at length and ,given his ongoing desire to serve the people of Reading as a councillor, he has come to the conclusion that his political future lies within the Labour Party.
“We, his friends in the Conservative Group, wish him well for the future.”
