Cllr quits Labour as it ‘no longer serves area’

Councillor Dan Harris has left the Labour party after saying that “it no longer serves the interests of local people” and “a slow fuse was lit”.

Cllr Harris (pictured) posted to the Filton News and ViewsFacebook group on March 22, explaining that he will continue to serve Filton, but as an independent.

In the post, which has since been deleted, Cllr Harris also commented: “Your [South] Glos Councillors do not represent you.”

In response, South Gloucestershire councillors Alex Doyle and Adam Monk, who both represent Filton, said they were disappointed by Cllr Harris’ remarks.

They said: “It is disappointing to hear Dan feels like this. Dan never raised these concerns with Alex or I at any time.

“If Dan would like to provide us with detail on how he feels we can improve he is welcome to attend one of our weekly surgeries held in Filton Library every Saturday from 10am to 11am or email us.”

Cllr Harris explained that his departure was partially due to what the Labour Party is doing nationally, but disagreement with some local councillors also contributed to his decision.

He said: “There are certain councillors who genuinely care, and there are certain councillors there to push an agenda.”

Hoping to contest in the 2027 election as an independent, Cllr Harris said that without a national picture to focus on, “it’s Filton and Filton only”. Despite his recent departure, Cllr Harris reflects on his time with Labour positively.

He said: “There’s no real animosity between me and the Labour party as such. “I took the plunge and to be honest I was welcomed with open arms.”