21/05/2026
GREENS PLEDGE TO HOLD REFORM UK COUNCIL TO ACCOUNT
Reform takes the helm at East Sussex County Council as Conservatives prop up far-right agenda despite massive election losses
At today's Annual Meeting of East Sussex County Council, Reform UK has secured the position of Leadership of the Council by just one vote despite Reform holding just twenty two out of 50 seats with the three Conservatives supporting Reform to take control of the council.
The result comes just two weeks after East Sussex voters delivered a devastating verdict on 25 years of Conservative administration, reducing the Tories to just three seats. Rather than accepting the clear mandate for change, the Conservative group has chosen to back Reform UK — a party whose national positions on public services, equality and local government stand in stark contrast to the needs of East Sussex communities.
Councillor Julia Hilton, Green Party Group Leader, said
“Conservative Councillors have handed the County Council to Reform on a plate! Vote Conservative.Get Reform. Their supporters will be furious.”
“We are ready to form an administration together with our Lib Dem colleagues. We put this new administration on notice. When they fail, which they will, we will be ready! It is also shocking to see an all male cabinet, how can eight men represent the needs of and priorities of East Sussex
Reform UK won 22 seats on 7 May, making it the single largest group on the council but far short of the 26 required for a majority. The majority of East Sussex councillors from the Green Party, Liberal Democrats and the Independent opposed this outcome, reflecting the views of the majority of residents 71% who did not vote for Reform.
Councillor Johnny Denis, Green Party Group Deputy Leader
We will, together with Liberal Democrats, form a robust opposition, scrutinising every decision and fighting to protect public services, equality, and the environment. Residents can be assured that this council will be held to account.
NOTES TO EDITORS: — East Sussex County Council has 50 seats. No party holds a majority. The composition is: Reform UK 22, Liberal Democrats 13, Green Party 11, Conservative 3, Independent 1. — The vote was tied 25-25. The casting vote of the outgoing Conservative Chair determined the outcome in Reform's favour. — The annual meeting took place at County Hall, St Anne's Crescent, Lewes, BN7 1UE. — The 2026 election is expected to be the last before the council is replaced by new unitary authorities.
For media enquiries contact:
Councilor Julia Hilton 07714443221
Photo: 11 new Green Party Councillors at County Hall
