Island Politicians Criticise Reform UK's Bid To Chair New Regional Authority

Reform UK's call to lead the new Hampshire and Solent Combined Authority (HSCCA) has drawn criticism from political leaders on the Isle of Wight.

The party's Hampshire leader, Councillor George Madgwick, said Reform has a "democratic mandate" to chair the authority, arguing the role should not automatically go to what he described as the "political establishment".

The HSCCA, created as part of the Government's devolution plans, is due to hold its first meeting this month.

It brings together the leaders of Hampshire County Council, Isle of Wight Council, Portsmouth City Council and Southampton City Council to make decisions on issues including transport, housing, planning and economic growth.

Councillor Madgwick said Reform had "won seats, topped polls and broken through in communities that have been ignored for too long", adding that the chairmanship should reflect that support.

However, the proposal has been rejected by several Island politicians.

Council leader Jonathan Bacon has previously denied claims he is acting as a "puppet", saying he was approached to take on the leadership because of his experience and that "no deals were done".

Meanwhile, Isle of Wight West MP Richard Quigley said it was "unclear" how Reform could claim a mandate to chair the authority after failing to take control of any councils in the region. He said residents deserved leadership that takes devolution seriously.

Liberal Democrat group leader Councillor Andrew Garratt said voters had elected local councillors, not chosen who should chair the combined authority, while All for Islanders leader Councillor Chris Jarman called for the interim chair to be selected through an "open, transparent process".

Green Party councillor Claire Critchison also dismissed Reform's claim, saying the arrangements for appointing the chair are already clear and noting the party did not put forward a candidate to lead the Isle of Wight Council.

The combined authority will be led by council leaders until the first regional mayoral election, which is expected to take place in 2028.