Weston Council Conservative Leader Leaves Door Open to Shock Reform Switch
Conservative councillor for Uphill; Cllr Jill Bute, has refused to rule out standing for Reform in the May 2027 elections when asked by Weston Independent News as a source close to the Weston-super-Mare branch of the party says they are anticipating her defection.
Speaking to Weston Indepedent News on the condition of anonymity, the source said: "Word is going around locally that Reform in Weston are anticipating a defection from Uphill councillor Gill Bute, with plans for her to stand under their banner in the 2027 elections.
Alongside this, internal expectations have dropped due to declining poll numbers. The local branch only sees realistic chances of winning in Uphill and Hutton & Locking now.
This has apparently caused some friction among local members, as branch chairman Robert Pratt—who only recently took on the role—and his son are both lining themselves up to run in Hutton & Locking, which internal polling suggests is their safest bet, this is certainly causing some uncomfortable conversations!"
When asked by our reporter via a phonecall, Cllr Jill Bute said "I was at a Conservative Party meeting only this week but like many Conservative councillors I have thought long and hard about my next steps but I will not be defecting to Reform"
However, when asked if she will be re-standing in the May local elections next year, Cllr Bute said: "I have not made my mind up yet, theres a numer of options, and if I had decided why would I tell you?"
When pressed on whether or not she would rule out standing for Reform next May, Cllr Bute failed to do so and said: "That is not something I would talk to you about"
In response, the leader of Weston Town Council, Cllr Ciaran Cronnelly said: "As the leader of the Labour Group on Weston Town Council my focus remains on delivering for Weston-super-Mare rather than the revolving door of gossip about Conservative councillors potentially jumping ship from their party to Reform UK at the next local election"
Councillor Gillian Bute represents the Uphill ward and is the Conservative group leader on Weston-super-Mare Town Council. First elected in 2019, Cllr Bute is currently serving her second term of office and sits on the Finance and General Purposes Committee; Personnel Committee; Devolution Start and Finish Group.
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