Councillor Tony Johnson was elected Conservative Group leader at the Group's AGM last week.

Councillor Johnson, who has served with the council for nearly three years as ward member for Hope End, is currently cabinet member for financial management. He defeated Councillors Graham Powell and Phillip Price in the leadership vote.

Councillor Andrew Atkinson said: "We've got a serious issue with the culture in the way things have been, and are, done. Strong communication has been lacking for years.

"I voted for Graham Powell because he is somebody who has attended everything he's ever been invited to across the county. We need leadership from people who will engage and tell them straight.

"Tony Johnson has a firm hand on the finances and I'm sure he will be a very good leader."Regardless of the outcome I am hoping for the combination of Graham and Tony working together for sound financial management and effective communication.

"These are traumatic times for the Council. We need to tell people what we're doing and listen."

Over the next few weeks, Councillor Johnson will spend time working closely with the new chief executive, Alistair Neill, and the current leader of the council, Councillor John Jarvis, who will remain in post until the annual council meeting when councillors will elect the new leader of the council, on May 24th.

Councillor Johnson has spent the last 30 years of his working life in finance and banking and played a significant role in successfully transforming the former state-run Trustees Savings Bank (TSB) into a commercial business.

Councillor Olwyn Barnett, chairman of the council said: "I am pleased for both Councillor Johnson. He has the skill, experience and dedication to get us through this difficult challenge."

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