New 'Very Broad Church' Political Group Formed On Isle Of Wight

A new political group called ‘Very Broad Church’ has been formed on the Isle of Wight Council.

Cllr Clare Mosdell, former leader of the Isle of Wight’s Conservative councillors, has joined forces with Independent Socialist, Cllr Geoff Brodie.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service understands the Very Broad Church group has been created for ‘tactical reasons’.

Cllr Mosdell, who represents Newchurch, Havenstreet and Ashey ward, resigned from the Conservative group in August last year while Pan and Barton representative Cllr Brodie quit the Alliance group in 2021.

Cllr Brodie said:

“Although Cllr Mosdell and I have opposing views on the best economic model for society, on many of the challenges currently facing the Isle of Wight Council – e.g. budget, local government reorganisation – we agree.

“Therefore, for the remaining three months of our service as councillors we have agreed to form a group for tactical reasons.”

Cllr Mosdell serves on a variety of County Hall’s panels including the adult social care, public health and housing needs, appointments and employment, environment and community protection, harbour, planning and policy, finance and resources committees.

She has also been contacted for comment.