Statement to the North Eastern Advertiser, Wednesday 29 January 2025:
I confine my comments today to the suspension of the elected members of Dorset Council: the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Councillors which has prevented them from performing the duties they were elected to do in October 2022.
While a number of shortcomings have been identified and remedies recommended, I am aware that a number of elected councillors who have made solid and positive contributions to the Dorset community are torn between resigning and continuing on. I have contacted a number of them and offered my full support should they be willing to continue on.
Unfortunately, this process has taken much longer than was expected. As a local MP I will do everything within my power to support council and am working to ensure that the State Government gives solid support so the local community moves forward and the region prospers.
In regard to Council employees, I agree that the matters are serious and should be dealt with properly and impartially. Therefore, my statement today does not relate to those individuals or findings.
