West Berkshire Council leader quits to campaign for Parliament

The leader of West Berkshire Council has said he will step back from his role so he can put himself forward as a candidate at the next general election.

Liberal Democrat Lee Dillon will continue to sit on the council's executive group and remain portfolio holder for public safety.

Deputy leader Jeff Brooks will become acting leader from Thursday when Mr Dillon steps aside, the council said.

Mr Dillon said it had been "an honour to serve as leader".

The council said the new arrangements would remain in place until after the general election, which must be held by January 2025, at which point they would be reviewed by the executive group.

Mr Dillon previously stood as a parliamentary candidate in 2005 and 2019.

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