War of words over by-election in late Moreton councillor’s ward

Oct 14 2009 by Matt Hurst, Wallasey News

A BY-ELECTION will take place in Moreton and Saughall Massie ward, following the death of incumbent Conservative councillor, Suzanne Moseley.

The by-election was triggered this week by two separate groups, who are now squabbling over who made the move first.

Any council tax payer can trigger a by-election in such circumstances, by simply writing to the appropriate council department.

Wirral Campaign Against Cuts (WCAC) says it had the idea, but the Conservative group claim its letter arrived first after being tipped off about WCAC’s plans.

Conservative Moreton and Saughall Massie councillor Chris Blakeley told the News: “We’re particularly disappointed and consider it insensitive, having only laid Suzanne to rest last week and having been made aware that WCAC were likely to trigger a by-election.

“We’re equally disappointed that WCAC would consider putting forward a candidate when they made it clear they would only put candidates up against those who voted for the Strategic Asset Review (SAR).

“Suzanne campaigned, along with the Conservative group, against the SAR.”

But WCAC’s Alec McFadden rejected this, saying: “At no stage has any deal been done with the Conservative party.

“It’s true we welcome the way they voted on the issue of the libraries, however WCAC committee is a non-party political organisation.

“We believe in democracy and have no objection to any political party or independent people standing in this election.

“However, we have utmost confidence we will be successful in this election.”

Wirral Council confirmed the by-election will take place, but would not confirm the mooted dates of either November 19 or 26, this year.

If a by-election had not been triggered, it is likely the seat would have remained dormant until next May’s council elections.

Liberal Democrat leader, Cllr Simon Holbrook said: “I’m surprised it’s been triggered as quickly as that, but it’s a long time to leave the seat vacant until next May.

“I think it’s appropriate to have a by-election but it does seem a bit hasty after the funeral.”

Labour’s Cllr Phil Davies said: “We’re very sorry about the tragic circumstances but we’re happy to stand in this by-election and confident we can get a result.”

A public notice will be distributed by Wirral Council, setting out the protocol for candidates.

In anticipation, the Conservative group has already decided who will fight to retain the seat.

Steve Williams lives in Saughall Massie, has two children and runs his own computer company.

He told the News: “It was Suzanne who got me interested.

“I’d always been interested in politics and she talked me into supporting for a few years, and hopefully I can continue the good work she’s done.”