Michael Dunk, a Somerset councillor representing Frome West and a member of the Green Party, may not have to immediately relinquish his council seat pending the outcome of a planned appeal against his recent conviction.
Dunk, affectionately known as “Mick,” was sentenced on December 5, 2025, at Southwark Crown Court to 26 months imprisonment and ordered to pay £4,380 in fines and court costs. His sentence stemmed from his participation in a Just Stop Oil protest on November 8, 2022, where he joined activists climbing gantries on the M25 to voice opposition to new fossil fuel developments.
A crowdfunding campaign launched to cover his court costs has so far raised over £6,000.
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Councillor Martin Dimery, who also represents Frome West, explained that Dunk remains eligible to serve until the appeal process concludes. Under the Criminal Appeal Act 1968, convicted individuals have 28 days to lodge an appeal, which, if taken, suspends immediate disqualification. The appeal hearing itself could take considerable time, extending Dunk’s tenure on the council.
Dimery also highlighted that Dunk’s sentence includes deductions for time already served under curfew and imprisonment conditions. Should a sentence of three months or more be upheld, whether suspended or not, Dunk would then be disqualified from council membership.
He further noted that Dunk’s sentencing was akin to those given to the Southport rioters in 2024, pointing out the court treated the protest as violent despite its peaceful nature.
Regardless of Dunk’s status, he will be ineligible to vote on Somerset Council’s budget scheduled for February 25, 2026, since only councilors present and with no unpaid council tax arrears may participate in voting.
Somerset Council confirmed no demand for Dunk to step down has been made, nor has a by-election date been arranged. A spokesperson said that disqualification only becomes effective after any appeal is either not lodged within the legal timeframe or is unsuccessful following its conclusion.
Thus, until the appeal is resolved or Dunk resigns voluntarily, he is expected to remain a serving councillor.