Warwickshire County Council leader resigns, leaving 18-year-old in charge
- Rob Howard, a Reform UK councillor, stepped down as head of Warwickshire County Council on June 26, 2025, after just 41 days in the position, with his 18-year-old deputy George Finch taking over on an interim basis.
- Howard was elected leader on May 16 following Reform UK's gains in the May 1 local elections where it became the largest party but formed a minority administration and he cited health reasons for resigning.
- Howard expressed regret over stepping down, said he was honoured to hold the demanding role briefly, and pledged to continue as a county councillor while Finch vowed steady leadership until a new leader is chosen.
- Howard won leadership support with 28 councillors against 15 for Liberal Democrat Jerry Roodhouse and 10 for Green councillor Jonathan Chilvers, with one abstention reported during the vote.
- Howard's resignation raised concerns about leadership instability amid council challenges including social care and infrastructure, while Reform UK continues to manage Warwickshire’s £414 million service budget.
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Reform UK council leader quits, leaving 18-year-old in charge
Another Reform UK councillor has quit. This time the leader of Warwickshire County Council has resigned, leaving his 18-year-old deputy in charge, giving Nigel Farage and his party yet another headache. Reform UK councillor Rob Howard released a short statement in which he said he had made the decision with “much regret”. Cllr Howard said: “This has been a very difficult decision to take. “The role of leader is an extremely demanding role and re…
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