Secret ‘1922 Committee’ plans - Proof of unrest as Westminster Tories plan equivalent at City Hall
Published: 03 September 2010
by JAMIE WELHAM
TORY councillors are planning to set up a City Hall equivalent of the influential 1922 Committee in Parliament, the West End Extra has learned.
A letter outlining the proposal has been sent to all Conservative councillors in what is being seen as proof of unrest within the party.
A copy of the letter from councillor Christabel Flight, wife of former MP Howard Flight, was handed to the West End Extra this week.
It says: “I have been asked by several colleagues if I would be willing to set up a Westminster Council equivalent to the 1922 Committee in Parliament. This would provide a forum for ‘backbench’ councillors to discuss Westminster Council policy issues and would be a conduit for any material concerns.”
It adds: “I felt it appropriate to talk to Colin [council leader Colin Barrow] about this.”
Opposition leaders have jumped on the letter as evidence of a rift within the Conservative group.
But Cllr Barrow has insisted he would welcome greater input from backbenchers.
“We all know the political landscape is changing and even more so for local authorities,” he added. “I am delighted that our backbenchers, who do a tremendous job in their wards and in scrutiny committees, wish to get involved even more and support me and my cabinet further.”