Fryent Councillors Brent

Brent Council elects new Leader

The annual meeting of the Council on 16th May, saw the investiture of a new Labour Leader of the Council, Cllr Muhammed Butt, 45year old, father-of-three, who was born and educated in the borough. A BT engineering manager, he has represented the Tokyngton ward near Wembley (where he lives) since 2006.

Cllr Butt paid tribute to his predecessor, veteran Cllr Ann John, who is stepping down after 12 years as Labour Leader. He said, 'Ann has been a superb leader, who has led the Labour Group with considerable success since 2001.'  He said, 'it is time for a change. I want to make sure messages are communicated better so that residents understand more fully why we are having to make the tough decisions required by central government  which are facing this Council today. I am determined that we rise to those challenges through hard work, innovation and clearly defined priorities.'

The Council also elected Fryent councillor, Ruth Moher, as Deputy Leader. Ruth a former manager in local government social services, will take over responsibility for the Council's finances and budgets. She said, that a new approach was needed and she felt Cllr Butt would bring his considerable experience and skills to bear on the challenges we face. Chief Executive, Gareth Daniel, has also assured the entire leadership team of officers' committment to providing them with the highest calibre of officer advice.

Most of the existing Executive team were re-elected including the two other Fryent councillors, George Crane, (Regeneration and Development) and Jim Moher, (Highways and Transportation), making up a very experienced team. Jim said, 'this renewal of the Council leadership is just what Brent needs in these difficult times. They will have our fullest support.'