Mark Whitehead 26 May 2017

Council reaches ‘new low’ with all male cabinet

Election experts have accused a Welsh county council of reaching a ‘new low for diversity’ after appointing an exclusively male cabinet.

Tory councillor John Thomas, leader of the seven-man team at Vale of Glamorgan, said the new cabinet would bring ‘wealth of professional and political experience’ to the authority.

The council also points out that it has a new female mayor, Janice Charles.

But the Electoral Reform Society says newly-formed council cabinets in Wales do not reflect the fact more than a quarter of councillors are women.

The proportion ranges from 42% in Swansea to 10% in Ynys Mon, where only three women were elected.

Cllr Thomas, who is taking over from a Labour-led administration, said: ‘The new cabinet brings a wealth of professional and political experience to the council and will provide the leadership needed to develop services fit for the 21st Century.’

But ERS Cymru director Jess Blair said: ‘The Vale of Glamorgan council's failure to have any women on their cabinet is a new low for diversity.

‘We have serious concerns that other authorities across Wales are also failing to appropriately diversify their cabinets with all councils so far failing to be gender balanced.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Commercial Services

Wyre Forest District Council
£74,634
This new role presents the ideal opportunity for you to invest your commercial expertise in a role where it matters more. Kidderminster, Worcestershire
Recuriter: Wyre Forest District Council

Strategic Director Housing, Environment and Healthy Communities

Gateshead Council
Up to £138,523 p.a.
We have a fantastic opportunity for an innovative and forward-thinking leader. Gateshead, Tyne and Wear
Recuriter: Gateshead Council

Corporate Director, Resources

Tower Hamlets London Borough Council
£Competitive
We are the fastest growing and most densely populated place in the UK. Tower Hamlets, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Tower Hamlets London Borough Council

Chief Executive / Prif Weithredwr

Denbighshire County Council
£149,074 - £153,584
Denbighshire County Council is seeking a visionary and inspirational Chief Executive. Denbighshire (Sir Ddinbych)
Recuriter: Denbighshire County Council

Strategic Director of Resources and Innovation

Harrow London Borough Council
£139,812 - £153,993
Are you ready to do something extraordinary? Harrow, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Harrow London Borough Council
Linkedin Banner