Reform Councillor Asked To “Consider His Position” After Missing Key Meetings

A Lake North councillor is facing calls to “consider his position” after failing to attend a string of important education meetings at County Hall.

Reform UK’s Cllr David Maclean has missed the first three sessions of the Isle of Wight Council’s children’s services, education and skills committee (CSESC), according to committee chair Cllr Paul Brading.

Since being elected in May, Cllr Maclean has attended just two out of six expected committee meetings.

His Reform UK colleague, Cllr Caroline Gladwin, covered for him at yesterday’s meeting (Thursday), telling members she would “likely” take over his place due to her interest in the committee.

Cllr Maclean was also absent from both the May 3 by-election count and his official induction at County Hall. At the time, his party said family illness was behind his absence.

Speaking at CSESC, Cllr Brading said:

“I’m conscious Cllr Maclean has not been to our first three meetings. It really does concern me.

"Going forward we have some real key decisions to make and I’m just wary that without the knowledge we’ve all picked up, it may be a problem.”

He confirmed he would be writing to Cllr Maclean, asking him to reflect on his position on the committee.

Independent councillor for East Cowes, Karl Love, added that failing to attend left Lake North residents without representation on “extremely difficult” and “complex matters.”

Cllr Maclean has been approached for comment.