West London Green Councillors Attend Just One Meeting Each Since Defecting from Labour
Hammersmith and Fulham's inaugural Green Party councillors have each participated in only a single council meeting in the more than seven months since they left the Labour Party, despite their promises to provide "real representation" to residents. Councillor Trey Campbell-Simon and Councillor Liz Collins, who made history by becoming the borough's first Green members last July, have narrowly avoided removal under council rules that dismiss members who miss all meetings over a six-month period.
Allowances and Accountability Concerns
As a result of their minimal attendance, both councillors have continued to receive their full council allowance, set at £12,347 for the 2025/26 financial year, paid in monthly instalments. This has sparked criticism from political opponents and residents alike, who question their dedication to local governance. A Green Party spokesperson acknowledged "ongoing issues" with the councillors and confirmed that neither will stand in the upcoming May elections, though it remains unclear whether this decision was made by the individuals or the party.
Defection and Promises of Change
On July 22 last year, Cllr Campbell-Simon and Cllr Collins defected from the ruling Labour group, citing a "culture of control" and a "top-down, toxic culture" within the party. At a press event in Eel Brook Common, Cllr Campbell-Simon, representing Walham Green, emphasized his commitment to speaking up for residents, while Cllr Collins, from Ravenscourt, praised the Green Party's acceptance of diverse opinions. They described the move as a "momentous moment" that would offer "real representation and accountability."
Attendance Records and Local Reactions
However, in the subsequent months, Cllr Campbell-Simon attended only a Cabinet meeting in December, where he did not contribute, and Cllr Collins was present at a Children and Accountability Policy and Accountability Committee in November. A resident in Cllr Campbell-Simon's ward noted he has maintained a "low profile" and is rarely seen locally. Conservative opposition leader Cllr Jose Afonso criticized the Greens, stating they are "not a serious force for delivering the change the borough so desperately needs" and highlighted absenteeism among Labour councillors as well.
Political Responses and Future Implications
Cllr Callum Nimmo, Hammersmith and Fulham Labour's Deputy Whip, defended the administration's record, citing initiatives like free home care and cost-of-living support, and emphasized that councillorship requires "dedication and knowing how to work through the system." The Green Party's response reiterated internal management of the issues and thanked for patience, but did not address specific attendance queries. As the May elections approach, this situation underscores broader debates about political accountability and effectiveness in local government.
