Tory boss: 'It's just not right'

The alliance of independent and Green councillors that has come together to form the official opposition at Lancashire County Council has been branded “undemocratic” - and an insult to voters.

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That is according to the leader of the authority's Tory group, which secured the second-largest number of seats at this month's local elections - but which has been prevented from becoming the main opposition as a result of the creation of 'Progressive Lancashire'.

Aidy Riggott has blasted the alliance, claiming it has no mandate and is incapable of representing a broad cross-section of public opinion in Lancashire.

"This is clearly undemocratic - and it’s just wrong. Reform won fair and square - they are the administration and we, the Conservatives, came second, and we should be the [official] opposition group.

"This option of a 'Progressive Lancashire' just wasn’t on the ballot paper for residents to show their support for.

He said the alliance had taken advantage of legislation designed to be used to form ruling coalitions on councils that are in no overall control.

He also launched a blistering attack on the Progressive Lancashire leadership - the Labour-turned-independent, Azhar Ali, and his deputy and Green Party leader, Gina Dowding.

"I think those involved should be ashamed of their actions