Only LibDem in Greater Manchester cabinet to step down as Stockport leader

Stockport Council’s leader and the only non-Labour politician in Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s cabinet is to step down.

Currently in his second stint as leader, having previously done so between 2002 to 2005, he then served as MP for Cheadle from 2005 until 2015 his defeat in the wipeout of his party in 2015.

He returned as council leader after the Liberal Democrats narrowly secured the Council, which is under no overall control, in May 2022.

Reflecting on his time as Leader, Cllr Hunter, said: “Serving the people of Stockport has been a great privilege. After careful consideration, I have decided that this is the right time for me to pass on responsibility for leading the Council to the next generation.

“I would like to thank colleagues across the council past and present, partners and councillors from all parties who work tirelessly to ensure our borough has such a well-run local authority.” 

A new Leader of the Council will be agreed by councillors at May’s Annual Council Meeting.

In the Greater Manchester cabinet, Hunter is currently Portfolio Lead for Children and Young People.

Leading candidates to succeed him from the ruling Liberal Democrat group are expected to be cabinet member for finance and resources, Cllr Jilly Julian, who is a business coach; and deputy leader and cabinet member for Climate Change and Environment, Cllr Mark Roberts, who is a professional actor.