Councillor joins Ukip
The Ukip group on Maidstone Borough Council has a new member after independent councillor Gordon Newton crossed the floor to join them.
Cllr Newton, who represents Downswood and Otham, said his decision was based entirely on local concerns rather than national issues. He said: “I’ve been increasingly disillusioned for some time about the number of houses being foisted upon us. Ukip seem to be the only ones showing proper concern for the preservation of our green fields.”
Cllr Newton dismissed suggestions he should resign his seat and fight it again under the Ukip badge.