Voice of the Opposition

Editor’s note: Each month, we present a guest column from one of Medway’s elected representatives, rotating between our MPs, council and opposition leaders, and the Police and Crime Commissioner. Today, for our latest Voice piece, we welcome Medway Council Leader of the Opposition George Perfect, who talks about the upcoming Cuxton, Halling & Riverside by-election.

Voice of the Opposition

by Cllr George Perfect, Conservative Leader of the Opposition at Medway Council

I wanted to take the opportunity in this Voice of the Opposition to talk about the upcoming by-election in Cuxton and Halling.

But first, a moment to reflect on our late friend Cllr Phil Filmer. Cllr Filmer leaves big boots to fill; he was an exceptional councillor and friend. A member of my Shadow Cabinet, and the front-bench of every Medway Conservatives Leader, Phil leaves a huge hole in Medway’s public life. He served not only the Council, but also the Rochester Bridge Trust, and believed in giving back to his community. I thank people from across Medway for their support of Phil’s family and friends over recent months. 

In our new candidate Richard Thorne, we have sought someone who will bring fresh energy, local understanding, and a clear commitment to continue the work already underway, working alongside our brilliant Cllr Matt Fearn. 

This by‑election comes at a pivotal moment for our community. As Local Government Reorganisation starts, Medway is entering a new phase of governance, one where steady and reliable leadership in the council will be essential to create a thriving Kent. 

While the by-election is, on the surface, a competition for a single seat, the residents of Cuxton and Halling will be making an incredibly important decision when they vote. It is an opportunity for residents to reflect, not only about who represents them locally, but about maintaining the stability and progress the community has seen in recent years.

For the Conservatives, this is a seat we are proud to have held and a seat we hope to continue to hold. 

Under the current Labour and Co-Operative administration, our high streets continue to struggle, our public spaces are being let down, council borrowing is rampant, and many residents feel that their concerns are not being heard with the urgency they deserve. While challenges such as this are a real problem for many councils, the response to those challenges has not been as residents have a right to expect. 

However, we know from our experience at County Hall that electing a Reform councillor won’t change that. 

This by‑election is not just about replacing one councillor. It is about making sure the council’s opposition is made up of resilient and strong members, who are ready to put their residents at the forefront – not debates about national issues.

We believe the Medway Conservatives have chosen the right candidate for the job. 

A strong opposition will argue for change, offering realistic alternatives, consistent and rigorous scrutiny and a willingness to take responsibility for difficult decisions. A weak opposition of populists will call for change without offering credible or deliverable alternatives. 

I ask that the residents of Cuxton and Halling turn to Richard Thorne instead of investing in a high-risk, low-reward candidate. 

Our new candidate represents both continuity and renewal. Richard Thorne understands the priorities of residents, from the importance of reliable services and the desire for a strong local economy. He is the current chairman of Halling Parish Council and had previously served on the council. This is a candidate who knows Cuxton and Halling having lived in the ward for 40 years, a candidate that understands Medway Council and a candidate who can be trusted to represent you. While bringing a fresh perspective and a determination to engage actively with the community, ensuring that residents feel heard and represented.

Residents have seen what can be achieved through steady and responsible opposition. This by‑election is an opportunity to continue that progress, with a new representative ready to work hard for the community from day one.

Cllr George Perfect is the Leader of the Opposition at Medway Council and Conservative councillor for Rainham North.