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Independent councillor Jonathan Bacon ousted Liberal Democrat rival to reclaim council leadership a decade after resigning in protest over austerity. His return comes despite Reform UK’s sweeping gains on the island.
Hampshire’s Conservative leader narrowly survives leadership vote as Reform UK abstains en masse and Liberal Democrats vow to challenge. Tensions rise as local government reshuffle looms in 2025.
Seven local authorities across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight entered no-overall-control after May’s elections, triggering behind-the-scenes deals to secure stable leadership. Reform UK holds unexpected leverage in multiple councils, while traditional parties scramble to form alliances amid budget battles and public service pressure.