Grant Johnson, a councillor representing the historic coal mining village of Paulton in Bath and North East Somerset, has announced his departure from the Labour Party, blaming “constant U-turns” and a lack of clear strategic direction under current leadership. Johnson, whose ward is regarded as the safest Labour seat in South West England, will now serve as an independent councillor.
Speaking to SomersetLive, Johnson explained, “If there was a different leader, maybe I would be making a different decision.” The environmental sustainability manager and agriculture professional expressed disappointment with Labour’s handling of climate change policies and agricultural reforms, key areas of his expertise.
Johnson emphasized that his local work, including chairing Paulton council, has always transcended party politics, but the actions of the national Labour government have increasingly reflected on local representatives, complicating his role. Despite his disillusionment with the national party and leader Keir Starmer, he praised Labour colleagues on Bath and North East Somerset Council for their dedication.
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The Labour group currently holds six councillors and serves as opposition to the Liberal Democrat majority. Johnson’s fellow Paulton councillor, Liz Hardman, remains with Labour. Paulton has consistently elected Labour representatives since the council’s formation, making Johnson’s independent run an intriguing challenge in next year’s local elections.
He hopes voters will recognize his commitment to the community and support him based on his local work rather than party affiliation. Johnson is considering an invitation to join the council’s Independent Group but has firmly rejected overtures from a competing independent faction, Independents for B&NES, citing internal controversies.
Labour group leader Robin Moss expressed regret at Johnson’s departure, highlighting the difficult choices faced in government after years of Conservative and coalition rule, and thanked him for his service. Meanwhile, the Independent Group welcomed Johnson’s decision, noting the advantages independent councillors have in focusing fully on local issues free from party constraints.
Johnson’s exit follows closely on the heels of another councillor, Ann Morgan, defecting from the Liberal Democrats to the Independent Group. Bath and North East Somerset Council’s current composition now includes 39 Liberal Democrats, six Labour, five Independent Group members, three Greens, three Independents for B&NES, two Conservatives, and Johnson as a lone independent.