MP stands down from his roles on local councils

THE MP for Woking has stepped down from his roles as borough and county councillor to “stand up for the community in Parliament”.

- By CHRIS CAULFIELD Local democracy reporter

Will Forster has resigned from his position as borough councillor for Hoe Valley and county member for Woking South with two by-elections for the vacant seats taking place in July.

Mr Forster, who was elected to Parliament last year, had expected to stand down during the since-cancelled May elections in order to save on the costs of a by-election. The long travel times between his Woking constituency, Parliament and County Hall in Reigate led him to conclude residents would be better served by new councillors.

He said he was “incredibly proud” of his decade-and-a-half in the council chambers but that the time had come to call it a day.

Mr Forster said: “It has been the honour and privilege to serve my community as a Surrey county councillor for the past 16 years and as a Woking borough councillor for the last 14 years.