Reaction to News of Cllr Juneja’s Departure

Published on: 18 Aug, 2014
Updated on: 22 Aug, 2014

Cllrs Mansbridge and Juneja in their council robes.

The following reactions to this afternoon’s news, that GBC’s lead councillor for planning has been asked to step down by her leader Cllr Stephen Mansbridge, have been received.

Caroline Reeves, the leader of the Liberal Democrat group at Millmead said: “The Lib Dem group are pleased that a statement has finally been issued by the Conservative leader and understand his concern to do what is best for Cllr Juneja.

“Very few people outside the Conservative group know the detail of the case, the residents’ involvement or the conduct of the police. As has been said, everyone is innocent until proved guilty.

“Our main concern now must be the accomplishment of a sound Local Plan without distraction. It will indeed be a difficult task for anyone to take on, and we hope that openness and transparency will be at the forefront of the work being done through the rest of the consultation period, the consideration of the comments received and then moving forward to the final Local Plan document.”

Harry Aldridge the prospective parliamentary candidate for Ukip said: “Cllr Mansbridge has made the right decision, finally. Those in public office must have the confidence of the electorate and, now that charges have been brought, it is right that Cllr Juneja steps down while the court case runs its course.

“It is slightly distasteful that Cllr Mansbridge seeks to overlook the issue of probity in public life citing her good work and the need to ‘steer a Local Plan through to successful adoption’.

“We do not need the distraction of this story further complicating such a contentious issue, and perhaps he might use this opportunity to do more to address the concerns of residents.”

Susan Parker leading organiser of the Guildford Greenbelt Group (GGG) said: “GGG has had no involvement in the police investigation…

“The outcome of the case is a matter for the courts and should not be influenced or prejudiced in any way.

“As a matter of law all councillors and officials are obliged to act in accordance with the seven Nolan principles of public life, which are Selflessness, Integrity, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness, Honesty, and Leadership.”

Other reactions may be added to this report as they are received.

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