Muhammed Butt ousts Ann John as Brent Council leader candidate

Well informed sources tell me that following a challenge to Ann John's leadership that her deputy, Muhammed Butt, will be put forward as leader of Brent Council at next week's Annual Council Meeting.

The Labour Group voted for Butt by 21 votes to 19 and their decision has to be confirmed by Full Council. It is a very narrow margin...

Muhammed is currently lead member for resources and is councillor for Tokyngton ward.

The way cuts, and particularly library closures, have been handled by Ann John, appear to have been the motivating factor in the challenge. At the meeting Butt said he wanted to mend relations with the local community.

The leadership change, if confirmed,  is likely to lead to other changes in the Brent Executive at Wednesday's meeting.