The Conservative Group on Solihull Council has announced that Councillor David Hoey has joined the Group following his decision to leave the Reform UK Group.
Leader of the Conservative Group, Councillor Karen Grinsell, welcomed Councillor Hoey's decision."I am delighted to welcome David to the Conservative Group. Although he has only recently been elected, he has already demonstrated his commitment to representing residents and taking his responsibilities as a councillor seriously. We look forward to working with him to deliver for the people of Solihull."
Explaining his decision, Councillor Hoey said: "I joined Reform UK as a protest. However, once I became part of the group, I encountered behaviour that I do not believe is appropriate for elected representatives. I raised my concerns both with the Reform Group locally and with Reform UK nationally, but no action was taken.
"I want to make it clear that my decision is not a criticism of every Reform councillor. I have worked alongside many decent, committed and hardworking colleagues who entered public service for the right reasons. My concerns relate to the conduct of a small number of individuals and to what I consider to be a failure to address behaviour that has, in my view, damaged both the Group and public confidence.
"In my experience, the Reform Group on Solihull Council has tended to focus on issues that generate headlines rather than those that best serve residents. That is not why I stood for election, and it is not how I want to represent the people who elected me."
Councillor Grinsell added: "The Conservative Group believes local government should always put residents first. Our focus is on delivering high-quality services, making sound decisions and working constructively for the benefit of communities across Solihull. I am pleased that David has chosen to join a team that shares those priorities, and I look forward to working with him.
"We welcome people who are committed to public service, integrity and collaborative working to achieve the best outcomes for residents. I know David will make a positive contribution to the work of our Group and to the Council."
Councillor Hoey will now sit as a member of the Conservative Group on Solihull Council. He will continue to represent the Meriden and Arden ward and will work alongside his Conservative ward colleagues, Councillors Lamden and Price, to deliver practical solutions and effective local representation for residents.
