Labour loses Hounslow Council majority after councillor's arrest

Labour has lost its majority control of Hounslow Council following the arrest and charging of Councillor Gurbachan Athwal. The party now holds 31 of the 62 seats, meaning it will govern without an overall majority. Councillor Athwal was arrested on Friday, September 25, and charged with fraud by abuse of position. He is scheduled to appear before Uxbridge Magistrates Court on October 27.

Councillor's Response and Suspension

Councillor Athwal has issued a statement denying the allegations, describing them as part of an effort to defame him. He stated he is cooperating fully to clear his name. To prevent distraction, he accepts the Labour Party's decision for an administrative suspension for the duration of the legal process. He added that he will continue to fulfil his council duties and support the local Labour administration.

Opposition Calls for Paused Changes

Opposition councillors have called for constitutional changes to be paused, citing the council's new status as a minority administration. Councillor Jack Emsley, Leader of the Hounslow Conservatives, stated that given the serious charges, it is appropriate for Councillor Athwal to lose the Labour whip. He argued that Labour lacks a mandate to unilaterally alter the council's constitution to reduce scrutiny now that they do not hold a majority. He urged the council to halt these attempts.

Councillor Guy Lambert of the Green Party commented that losing the whip would not prevent Councillor Athwal from supporting the current administration. He stated that if found guilty, Councillor Athwal should be dismissed and removed from the council, regardless of any appeal. He believes a withdrawal of the whip is insufficient and that a by-election should be called for residents to decide his replacement if convicted.

Council Administration and Future

Hounslow Labour has not publicly commented on the charges against Councillor Athwal since he was charged ten days prior to the report. A group spokesperson indicated that the party does not comment on internal party matters. A council with no overall control (NOC) means no single party has a majority. In such cases, a party may form a minority administration, relying on other councillors to pass budgets and resolutions. Without sufficient support, motions could result in a 31-31 tie, with the Mayor casting the deciding vote.

Councillor Athwal secured one of the seats in his ward during the May local elections, tying for second place with a Labour colleague. The Green Party's Councillor Jasmine Deol secured first place in that ward.