Council Leader Speaks Out On New Reform UK Councillor Absence

Lake North’s new Reform UK Isle of Wight councillor could not be at his initiation yesterday due to a “serious illness of a close family member”, County Hall’s leader has said.

In a statement this afternoon, Cllr Phil Jordan said he welcomed Cllr David Maclean to the Isle of Wight and said he fully understands “his predicament”.

Cllr Maclean is reportedly attending County Hall today (Wednesday) to sign the “necessary documents”.

A total of 291 Lake North voters backed the victorious Reform UK candidate in last Thursday’s by-election.

A leaflet that seems to have been distributed by his campaign describes him as an Island ‘businessman’.

It says:

“As a businessman on the Island I believe I can help to better run our council to the benefit of Lake North residents.

"I will expose council waste, challenge reckless spending, and push for real investment in local priorities.”

Cllr Jordan said:

“My understanding is that David was not able to attend (County Hall yesterday) due to a serious illness of a close family member that meant he had to attend the family member on the mainland.

“I do welcome David to the Isle of Wight, understand fully his predicament and I am told is attending County Hall today (Wednesday) to sign the necessary documents.

“I do wish David and his family member well and trust a speedy recovery is being made.”

An Isle of Wight Council spokesperson said:

“The newly elected councillor for Lake North, David Maclean, was unable to attend the appointment for acceptance of office and alternative arrangements are being made for him.”

Reform UK has been contacted but no response has been forthcoming.

David Maclean is yet to speak to the press.