Stretton takes leadership

Jean Stretton: likely rubber stamp as council leader

AN “honoured” Jean Stretton will be the next leader of Oldham Council after winning the backing of fellow Labour councillors on Saturday.

Councillor Stretton stood against Councillor Arooj Shah after Jim McMahon stepped down following his election as an MP. Councillor Stretton won the election by 26 votes to 17. making her Oldham Council’s first female leader. She isn’t officially council leader yet, but as the leader of the largest Labour group she will likely by voted into the council leadership when councillors from all parties meet at an extraordinary full council meeting before the end of the month.

There will now be another Labour group vote to elect a new party deputy leader - Councillor Stretton previously held that position.

She said: “I am honoured to have been chosen by my colleagues. I’m looking forward to working closely with the cabinet, councillors and officers to continue the fantastic work begun under Jim McMahon.

“My clear message to all residents and partners is that it is very much business as usual here at Oldham Council. I’d like to thank my colleagues for trusting me to lead Oldham into the next chapter of its renewal. I will not let them down.”

The vastly-experienced Councillor Stretton is also the current Cabinet member for health and well-being, leading the borough on the devolution of significant new health powers and a £6billion budget to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.

Councillor Stretton, who grew up on Alt Estate, was first elected for Hollinwood ward in 2003 and made a quick impression. After a year she joined the cabinet as member for housing. Councillor Stretton lost her seat in the 2008 local elections as the Liberal Democrats took charge of the council, enjoying reelection in 2010.

Councillor Shah said afterwards: “I want to congratulate Jean Stretton on her selection as Group Leader. I stood because I thought it was important to give the party a choice. Jim McMahon leaves very big boots to fill, but I am certain Jean will make a worthy successor.”

Councillor McMahon said: “Congratulations to Oldham Council’s first woman leader. I was massively impressed by both candidates.”