Coalition deal ‘faltered on anti-Semitism, anti-homophobia, anti-racism and anti-sexism’ training condition, says labour group leader

Local Labour politicians have expressed disappointment that the newly formed group of Independent councillors have chosen to stay in coalition with Conservatives.

Labour group leader Cllr Dana Davies has also revealed how coalition talks with Independents “faltered” after she said a coalition deal was conditional on all councillors undertaking training in anti-Semitism, anti-homophobia, anti-racism and anti-sexism.

Cllr Davies said as part of the proposal every councillor in the coalition would also have signed up to a motion condemning racism and misogyny, and in an aim to “to neutralise the bitterness in Wrexham politics”, every councillor would have been obliged to “support a new era of compassionate politics”.

As we reported earlier, the newly formed Independent Group has teamed up with the Welsh Conservatives to form a new administration and take control of Wrexham Council.

Speaking to Wrexham.com Cllr Davies said: “The agreement would have been a UK-first, it would have been ground-breaking. It would have required every councillor to embrace a tolerant, compassionate, kinder form of politics.

“It would have ensured racism is kicked out, that homophobia, sexism, anti-Semitism and Islamophobia have no place in Wrexham Council.

“But instead, the Independents have done a deal the Tories again, in what looks like pure self-interest based on keeping the same men in the same jobs as they had before the election.

“This is a sad day for Wrexham. We had a chance to turn the corner, to end decades of bitter politics and hatred. Instead, Independents and Tories are bunkering down to protect their own positions.”

Cllr Davies has said other conditions that were presented to Independents included a commitment to reviewing the way Wrexham Council communicates and engages with citizens, and to pursue the redevelopment of The Racecourse.

Wrexham Labour’s conditions of coalition also included a pledge on the Welsh language and humanitarianism. It stated a coalition was contingent on supporting the Welsh language, promoting diversity, working in partnership with communities and giving refuge to people fleeing war and persecution.

Cllr Davies added: “A huge number of people in the county borough will be left wondering where their interests are served in the Tories and Independents forming a coalition of self-interests.”

Top pic: Labour launching their local council election manifesto exactly a month ago.