Twenty councillors from Broxtowe Borough Council in Nottinghamshire have resigned from the Labour Party, citing dissatisfaction with its direction under Sir Keir Starmer. The group, led by Council Leader Milan Radulovic, accused Labour of straying from its "traditional values" and criticized policies such as the reduction of winter fuel allowances for some pensioners.

Radulovic, a Labour member for 42 years, expressed deep regret but stated he could no longer support what he described as a "centrist government intent on dismantling local democracy." He also condemned proposed local government reforms that could eliminate district and borough councils, calling them a move toward "dictatorship" by centralizing power and undermining community representation.

The councillors plan to form a new independent party to run the borough council as a minority administration, potentially seeking support from other independent members. They claim that 10 of their group were barred from standing for Labour in upcoming local elections after raising concerns about the party's winter fuel policy.

A spokesperson for Broxtowe Labour described the departures as "incredibly disappointing," noting that the councillors were elected on a Labour platform just 18 months ago. Despite this setback, they emphasized the party's continued commitment to serving residents and working toward a healthier, greener, and more prosperous Broxtowe.

The defections have sparked further unrest, with 100 grassroots members also leaving Labour in solidarity. The development marks a significant challenge for the party in Broxtowe, as it navigates internal divisions and shifting political dynamics.