By Harry Mottram: With the shocking news of the arrest of Dan Norris on a variety of charges including rape there has been a sense of turmoil within the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority – its staff and those who rely on its services. Fears that the authority has now a ‘lame duck’ mayor until May 1st, 2025, when a new Metro Mayor will be elected. The committee members of the authority which includes the three councils of South Gloucestershire, Bath and North East Somerset and Bristol City have issued a statement intended to pout oil on troubled water
Joint statement from members of the Mayoral Combined Authority committee:
“Following the news over the weekend, we want to reassure people across the West of England and beyond that effective decision making at the combined authority remains in place.
“Working with senior officials in the region, and in continued partnership with national Government, our important work continues.
“At our respective councils, we have taken steps to ensure that any staff who may have been affected have access to the appropriate support.
“With the pre-election period already underway, and any major decisions set for future committee meetings, we look forward to working with the new Mayor after the election on 1 May.”
Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council
Councillor Tony Dyer, Leader of Bristol City Council
Councillor Ian Boulton, Co-Leader of South Gloucestershire Council
Dan Norris for Labour was due to stand down on Thursday 1st May, 2025, as the Labour Party rules insist an MP cannot have a second job as an elected mayor. Mr Norris became the MP for North East Somerset and Hanham last July in the General Election.
Six people are standing for the position:
- Arron Banks (Reform UK)
- Helen Godwin (Labour)
- Oli Henman (Liberal Democrat)
- Mary Page (Green)
- Ian Scott (Independent)
- Steve Smith (Conservative)