‘Gaza silence is morally indefensible’: Deputy Labour leader quits party

INDEPENDENT: Councillor Hester Bridges

EXCLUSIVE by Angus Young

Former city council deputy leader Hester Bridges has quit Labour, describing the party’s silence over Gaza as “morally indefensible”.

Councillor Bridges became deputy leader of the then ruling Labour group on Hull City Council in 2021.

However she resigned from the party late last week, leaving the group which is now the main opposition at the Guildhall to sit as an independent representing Southcoates ward in east Hull.

She said: “I want to stress that my decision to leave the Labour Party is entirely because of the national party who I can no longer bear to represent.

“Hull Labour are a group of decent, principled individuals, working hard in communities and passionate about making Hull a better place.

“In Southcoates we have done that and we will continue to do that.

“The country was full of hope last July [after the General Election] and we have been let down by policy decisions that harm the lives of ordinary people and organisations supporting vulnerable people.

“The party’s narrative is increasingly odious and targets communities instead of speaking up for them.

“The party is choosing popularism over social justice.

“In addition, the Labour party’s silence over Gaza  is morally indefensible, and is a significant reason for my decision to leave.

“I hope my friends understand why I have taken this decision and my work continues as an independent.”

Responding to the news, Liberal Democrat council leader Councillor Mike Ross said: “With leading Labour politicians in Hull quitting the Labour party, it’s clear Keir Starmer’s government is one of the most unpopular in living memory.

“From cuts to the Winter Fuel Allowance to the proposals to slash support for carers, more and more people are feeling let down by Labour.

“Right across Hull thousands of people are switching to support the Liberal Democrats.

“The Lib Dems have already seen a big increase in membership locally since the last election and if people want a fair alternative to Labour and Reform, we’re the team to join.”