Grant Johnson, a long-serving councillor representing Paulton—the former coal mining village deemed the safest Labour seat in South West England—has announced his departure from the Labour Party to serve as an independent. His decision stems from frustration with what he describes as the government’s “constant U-turns” and a perceived lack of strategic vision under Keir Starmer’s leadership.
Speaking to SomersetLive, Johnson explained, “If there was a different leader, maybe I would be making a different decision.” The choice, he emphasized, was a difficult and deeply personal one, considered over several months. As chair of Paulton and an environmental sustainability manager by profession, Johnson finds himself at odds with Labour’s policies on climate change and agricultural reform.
Despite his resignation from the party, Johnson remains committed to his local responsibilities, stating, “I am happy to get on with my work locally. I haven’t got any ambition to go any further.” Importantly, he clarified that his decision does not reflect on his fellow Labour councillors on Bath and North East Somerset Council, praising them as “a really good great bunch” working hard for their communities.
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Within Bath and North East Somerset Council, the Labour group, now six strong, acts as the opposition to the Liberal Democrat majority. Johnson’s former colleague and fellow Paulton councillor, Liz Hardman, remains loyal to Labour. Historically, Paulton has continuously elected Labour councillors, and Johnson believes the village is the safest Labour seat in the region.
Looking ahead to next year’s local elections, Johnson expressed hope that voters will recognize his community work and support his bid to continue serving independently. While independent councillors commonly form groups on councils for committee representation, Bath and North East Somerset uniquely hosts two competing independent groups: the Independent Group and Independents for B&NES.
Both groups have extended invitations to Johnson, who is thoughtfully considering joining the Independent Group but firmly rejects the Independents for B&NES, citing internal controversies. Labour group leader Robin Moss expressed regret over Johnson’s departure but highlighted the challenges of governing after years of Conservative and coalition policies.
An Independent Group spokesperson praised Johnson’s dedication and welcomed his decision to become an independent councillor, emphasizing that independence often allows councillors to prioritize local needs without party constraints.
Johnson’s exit follows closely after High Littleton councillor Ann Morgan left the Liberal Democrats to join the Independent Group. The council now consists of 39 Liberal Democrats, six Labour members, five in the Independent Group, three Greens, three in Independents for B&NES, two Conservatives, and Johnson standing alone as an independent.