Labour appoints new leadership at Birmingham City Council
The move comes following a damning report.
Labour has appointed a new leader and deputy leader at Birmingham City Council following a damning report into the culture at the top of the authority.
The National Executive Committee (NEC) has recommended John Cotton, current cabinet member for social justice, community safety and equalities, should replace Ian Ward.
It has also recommended Sharon Thompson as the new deputy leader, replacing Brigid Jones.
The move comes after a series of interviews, and is expected to be confirmed by a vote on Tuesday.
The leadership changes were taken after a leaked report last week criticised the "dysfunctional" climate at Birmingham City Council, with concerns raised about levels of misogyny.
Mr Ward had responded to the potential leadership challenge earlier this week, reiterating his intention to stay on as leader:
“As the Leader of Birmingham City Council I have led our city through the challenges of austerity and the pandemic, safeguarding frontline services, and delivering the best Commonwealth Games we have ever seen.
“I have led Labour to two overwhelming election victories. I retain the confidence of the Birmingham Labour Group having recently won a leadership election and I hope to continue leading our group as we tackle the major challenges that our city faces.
His deputy Brigid Jones issued a statement via social media following the announcement of the new top team, saying it was "time for change" and the new leader and deputy have her "full support going forward."
A statement from the leader of the Conservative opposition group, Robert Alden, said: "Labour's Politburo have installed a new puppet regime in charge of Birmingham Labour.
He added: "Their new focus, as instructed by London, is to protect the Labour brand, not deliver improved services for residents."