Politics is often characterised by many as being an occupation for older people, and that engagement with younger voters is steadily declining. The recent set of local election results have really put Halesowen & Rowley Regis on the electoral map with the election of two new Councillors who are in their teens.
In the days following the election results there was national, regional and local coverage about the stunning results here for the Conservative Party which saw Joe Roberts (19) elected in Halesowen North and Jake Cooper (18) in Belle Vale. Both Joe and Jake really campaigned hard in their local communities to win the trust of voters, and they will really change the look and feel of Dudley Council House.
Issues such as housing, Brexit and education have really energised a new generation of voters who have looked to the Conservative Party as a political home for them. Buying their first home, having the skills for a career and ensuring that Brexit delivers future posterity is important for every generation, but as we adapt to new challenges the Government is delivering for young people. I know that both Joe and Jake will make excellent representatives, and hopefully inspire even more people to get involved in politics and make a difference in their local communities.
Across Dudley the Conservatives managed to gain 6 seats, which sees us lead the Council for at least another year. Dudley has proven to be a well-run and efficient local authority, and kept council tax low compared to other metropolitan authorities. I am glad that this will continue, and it’s good to see so many Halesowen Councillor’s sat around the Cabinet table and in positions of influence ensuring that Halesowen is properly represented.
In Sandwell there were just a handful of votes in it to secure a real opposition on the Council, but unfortunately Labour still have a dominate hold over the beleaguered authority. Labour still have a lot of questions to answer about the way they run the Council, and there is still a long way to go until local residents will have their trust restored.