SNP shut out of power in Angus

Tories, Lib Dems and Independents form administration

The SNP are officially out of power in Angus, after a new council administration was formed by Conservatives, Independents and Liberal Democrats.

Kirriemuir and Dean councillor Ronnie Proctor was elected as provost at the first meeting of the new council yesterday.

The new administration sees the return of Brechin and Edzell councillor Bob Myles as leader. SNP councillors voted for their Forfar councillor, Lynne Devine, as provost but were defeated by 18 votes to nine.

Ms Devine criticised the lack of women in the new administration, with only one female among its 18 members.

The leader of Angus council referred to Ronnie Proctor’s service in The Black Watch as he proposed him as provost.

Mr Myles said: “I’m sure he will do this very well as his duties with The Black Watch have enabled him to deal with many walks of society.

“I’m sure he will carry out the role in an excellent manner.”

After accepting the provost’s chain, Mr Proctor said: “I am deeply honoured to be sitting at this end of the chamber and to be elected as the provost of Angus.

“It is a great honour and I do not take it lightly.

“I see the main journey of this council is to support the people of Angus, the people who have elected us all.

“I think that, irrespective of political party, should be our main effort for the next five years.”

Carnoustie councillor Brian Boyd, who is the only Independent that is not part of the new administration, cast no vote on the election of provost.

After being elected depute provost Mr Brown said: “I am delighted to be chosen as depute provost for Angus and I will give it my full attention and support the provost in any way I can.”

The conveners and composition of the council committees were also agreed. They are as follows: Children and learning – convener Mark Salmond, vice-convener Derek Wann.

Communities – convener Craig Fotheringham, vice-convener Lois Speed.

Civic licensing – convener Craig Fotheringham, vice-convener Richard Moore.

Development standards – convener David Lumgair, vice-convener Gavin Nicol.

Policy and resources – convener Bob Myles, vice-convener David Fairweather.

Scrutiny and audit committee – convener Alex King, vice-convener Bill Duff.

The meeting was initially led by Angus Council chief executive Richard Stiff before the new provost was elected and Mr Proctor took the chair.. rmclaren@thecourier.co.uk

The new provost of Angus, Ronnie Proctor, accepted his chain of office.