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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Millie Cooke

Reform councillors quit party amid claims of misogyny

  • Two Reform councillors, Kathryn Shaw and Joanne Blythe, have left the party to sit as Independents on West Northamptonshire Council.
  • Joanne Blythe stated she could no longer continue due to what she perceived as 'misogynistic undertones' in her treatment and was suspended by Reform UK for indicating her intention to become an independent.
  • Kathryn Shaw, who previously resigned from a cabinet role, said her decision was to 'more effectively advocate for strong safeguarding systems' outside the party structure.
  • These departures contribute to ongoing turbulence within Reform UK's local authority leadership, following previous resignations and suspensions of councillors in Kent.
  • A Reform UK spokesperson expressed disappointment in Cllr Shaw's resignation and confirmed Cllr Blythe's suspension pending investigation into her intention to become an independent.

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