Chris Large Takes Charge as Reform UK Leader in Staffordshire

New Reform UK Leader Elected at Staffordshire County Council

Reform UK councillors at Staffordshire County Council have elected a new group leader. Cllr Chris Large, who represents the Brewood division, has taken on the role after a vote by the controlling group. He will be supported by Cllr Martin Murray as deputy group leader. Murray had been acting as leader since the previous leader, Cllr Ian Cooper, resigned following controversy over social media posts.

Cllr Large currently serves as cabinet member for finance and resources. Despite his busy finance role, he has been keeping residents in Brewood informed of a local canal bridge closure over the past couple of months, amongst other things.

In a statement, Cllr Large expressed his excitement about the position. He highlighted his work since being elected last May to improve efficiency and financial management at the council. This includes identifying millions of pounds in savings through actions like freezing non-essential recruitment, balancing the budget, keeping council tax rises below the national average, and prioritizing funding for children and families. He has also launched nine additional efficiency reviews to ensure better value for taxpayers. “I look forward to continuing this work in my new role, alongside my colleagues, to deliver real results for our community,” he said.

A spokesperson for Reform UK praised Cllr Large’s background, noting his over 30 years as a chief executive in finance and banking. They described this experience as invaluable for delivering cost-effective, high-quality services to residents of the county.

Following this group leader vote, Chris Large will then be voted in as council leader at the full council meeting on Thursday the 12th of February.