Walsall Council's 'strong leader' backed by new political group after Tory suspension
Members of a new political group on Walsall Council have backed boss Mike Bird’s ‘strong leadership’ despite his suspension from the Conservative Party.
On Wednesday, May 8, the majority of Walsall Tory councillors backed the establishment of the Conservative and Independent Group to be led by Councillor Bird, who is sitting as an independent.
Councillor Bird was suspended by the party following a disciplinary investigation into allegations of bullying and discrimination.
His retention as council leader and the formation of the new group sparked anger among some of the Conservative councillors who did not support the move and led to accusations of a ‘power grab”.
Councillor Bird and his new group were also criticised for campaigning under the Conservative banner ahead of last week’s local elections only to ‘defect’ within days of voting closing.
