Eric Pickles backs Eaton at LGA
- Published: 10 September 2008 09:22
- Author: Robin Latchem
- More by this Author
- Last Updated: 10 September 2008 09:22
Eric Pickles has welcomed the expected elevation of Margaret Eaton as the first female chair in the 11-year history of the Local Government Association.
In the ballot of Tory leaders and group leaders weighted according to council size, Cllr Eaton, with 2,042 votes, triumphed over Oxfordshire CC leader Keith Mitchell, who won 859.
Tandridge DC leader Gordon Keymer gained 369, Sunderland City Council Tory group leader Lee Martin 207 and East Riding of Yorkshire Council leader Stephen Parnaby 98 votes.
Cllr Eaton's nomination will now go to the LGA's executive meeting, when members will vote on the appointment of their new chairman.
Mr Pickles, Shadow Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, was at Bradford City MDC with Cllr Eaton.
"I have no doubt that Margaret will prove to be a fearless champion for local government, and the residents it represents."
Cllr Eaton will replace Sir Simon Milton who has become a deputy of London mayor Boris Johnson.
