Last night saw the first full Medway Council meeting of the year. If you weren’t one of the handful of members of public in the gallery, you might have missed out on all of the exciting local politics action. Here, thanks to the power of embedded tweets, we bring you the highlights of last night’s live Twitter coverage of proceedings.
Tonight the First #FullCouncil #Bingo Will all 9 squares occur? Win an A4 photocopy of the new @MedwayPolitics logo by @ben_cameron signed by somebody probably. pic.twitter.com/5EnlbVAsNB
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
We're at the first full #MedwayCouncil of the year. We're starting early with a special meeting to confer honorary freedom to HMS Medway. Regular full council is scheduled to begin at 7.15pm.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
But my microphone has been taken away…
— Anne-Claire Howard (@AC4Twydall) January 24, 2019
As usual, @MedwayLabour are broadcasting live. The camera is directly in front of us, and so there's a fair chance you'll pick up our gossiping if you're watching the feed. https://t.co/qbAEsYcMDn
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Apologies at this meeting from Cllrs Hicks, @CllrStuartT, Williams, Mackness (Con), and Cllrs @PatCoop91879588, @CllrAndyStamp (Lab). #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
#MedwayCouncil Cllr Chishti did not arrive late! If he doesn’t leave early then nobody gets a full house. #FullCouncilBingo
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Fascinating new setup for independent councillors, with four looney looking tables sitting well back from other opposition councillors. Cllr @AC4Twydall has not been provided with a microphone for some reason either. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/dGAlvBniiT
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
The honorary freedom is agreed unanimously, so we are now done until 7.15pm, when full #MedwayCouncil will begin.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Medway #Labour Group is extremely proud to support the Honorary Freedom of HMS #Medway. @RoyalNavy @BAES_Maritime #Navy #HMS #History #Heritage #Dockyard pic.twitter.com/Jgh01GNSA1
— Medway Labour (@MedwayLabour) January 24, 2019
Full #MedwayCouncil is now getting underway. A number of microphones apparently aren't working, and councillors will have to share some microphones. As if they aren't ropey enough at the best of times.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
It's prayer o'clock! Because that's what we do at a public council meeting. In 2019. Obviously. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Legal officer sets out that for @naushabahkhan motion, any councillor must declare if they let out residential property, or are a tenant in a property. Several @MedwayTories now declaring that they are landlords in Medway, and will leave room during debate. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/IbKGYexobU
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Cllr Kemp now making very pointed comments regarding the death of Cllr Carr – talking about how actions may have unintended consequences, seemingly aiming these comments at others in the chamber. Slightly uncomfortable and odd. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
A one minute silence is now being held in memory of Councillor David Carr.
— Medway Council (@medway_council) January 24, 2019
#FullCouncilBingo Cllr Joy is just happy to be here.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
It’s all kicking off on the @MedwayLabour livestream. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/UJywWSOS0r
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
One of the big reveals of #MedwayCouncil is meeting @RobbieLammas in person. If we had realised how big he is then @Ed_Jennings would never have been so mean…
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Immaculate
— Robbie Lammas (@RobbieLammas) January 24, 2019
Cllr @MartinMPotter presents another petition against development in Lower Rainham, and Cllr Wildey presents another one against development in Capstone. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Public questions! 24 questions, and only 30 minutes to answer them, so a lot of people won't be getting answers in this #MedwayCouncil meeting.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Zoe Van Dyke, @MedwayLabour candidate for Strood North is up next. Cllr R Chambers replies that there is no current plan to develop the sites in questions. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/KxXRPDQAFQ
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Now we have @sijuwadeade, @MedwayLabour candidate for Chatham Central, on Brexit. Cllr Jarrett says that #MedwayCounci cannot prepare until it is clearer what is happening, and manages to include "unholy alliance of Remainers". Rightio. pic.twitter.com/gDFj4DH7kr
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
#BREXIT thanks to @sijuwadeade #FullCouncilBingo
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Selfishly all @MedwayLabour Candidates who are coincidently asking #PublicQuestions have turned up. So far #FullCouncilBingo
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Parking charges and public transport from @jordanhartley89, @MedwayLabour for Watling. Cllr Filmer replies about bus passes for young people and others with concessions, which doesn't really address the point. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/f8q2WbqcQm
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Now it's James Braithwaite, @MedwayLabour candidate for Strood North. Cllr Chitty says these developments are being opposed by herself. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/DZErjqpatc
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Two questioners aren't here, so now it's Viv Parker, @MedwayLibDems candidate for Rochester South and Horsted. Cllr Chitty replies that the draft local plan is now available on website, complains governments keep moving goalposts on how plans are put together. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/mtnOoAsNMr
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Now we have @Hazel_LBrowne, @MedwayLabour candidate for Twydall. Cllr Brake replies that healthcare needs in these communities must be adequately addressed, but local services are being remodelled. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/lau9dNIbsY
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
#MedwayCouncil In an unexpected political union. Cllrs Freshwater @Medwayukip @UKIPMedway and Independent Cllr @AC4Twydall are sharing a microphone. We await to see whose image appears on the big screen.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Final question goes to @Harinder__Singh, @MedwayLabour candidate for Chatham Central. Cllr Jarrett replies he does not know enough to answer that question, and then spends his time knocking other Labour councils. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/c4nqc7njrv
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
That's the end of public question. By our count, seven public questioners do not get to ask their questions, and will receive written responses. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Cllr Jarrett is now waving a copy of the Sports section of The Sunday Times because it has a picture of a #MedwayCouncil logo on it. Great stuff.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
A solitary clap of applause for Cllr Jarrett at the end of his speech. Cllr @vincemaple now beginning his response, and he's immediately playing the hits for the gallery. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
— Naushabah Khan (@naushabahkhan) January 24, 2019
#FullCouncilBingo #MedwayCouncil Cllr Maple speaks. Bingo Cards ready for Cllr Jarrett response.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Will it be a #FullCouncilBingo ? pic.twitter.com/wQH0tlkS0W
— Siju Adeoye (@sijuwadeade) January 24, 2019
Always a highlight, @cllrtrisosborne is doing his usual whirlwind routine of burning through every issue possible in two minutes: Brexit! Potholes! CCTV! Rochester Airport! Luton Road! Flytipping! Breathe Tristan, breathe! #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
All of the @MedwayLabour public questioners have stayed to serenade every Medway Labour councillor with applause. Fun times. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Cllr @AC4Twydall (Ind) points out to Cllr Jarrett that 4% of Medway residents still don't really know what's happening post-Brexit, and that #MedwayCouncil are offering no guidance to these residents.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Cllr @TurpinRupert suggests @cllrtrisosborne's description of Medway makes the are sound like Gotham. He is unclear on whether it's the Burton or Nolan version though. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Disappointed by sidelining of Adam West era here.
— Chris Giles (@ChrisGi58356693) January 24, 2019
Cllr Jarrett replies to @AC4Twydall that #MedwayCouncil doesn't need to reassure residents as that is the job of the government, and then proceeds to accuse @MedwayLabour of bringing along 'their rent a mob'. Which does not go over well with the rent a mob.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Attacking the public gallery of residents who have concerns about their community a ‘rent-a-mob’ is another insulting gaffe. Civic minded individuals who attend to ask about concerns should be treated with respect. https://t.co/s1oNYm3EGN
— Tris Osborne (@cllrtrisosborne) January 24, 2019
We now have up to 25 minutes to debate Overview and Scrutiny activity. Strap in. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Cllr @ajpaterson is now speaking. Unconfirmed whenever Cllr Kemp can understand him. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Now we're onto councillor questions, starting with this from @cllrtrisosborne. Cllr Gulvin's response is simply "no". #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/Iyd3ECpsn3
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Cllr @mickpendergast (Ind) asking a rare question about traffic on the peninsula. Cllr Jarrett says work on planned diversion routes are underway, and consulted parishes, expresses surprise Cllr Pendergast was "unaware". #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/b5STVN9KtZ
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Disappointingly, Cllr Freshwater (UKIP) says "as written" for his question so epic that #MedwayCouncil's website literally can't fit it all. pic.twitter.com/jgLuE5sIAJ
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
We have run out of time for councillor questions, meaning these councillors will not get an answer to their questions in this meeting. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/IlXnYVfRWu
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
#MedwayCouncil Cllr Joy is old enough to remember being an Independent Cllr before it was trendy.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
We're now onto the Council Tax reduction scheme, which means we're now considering consuming more Freddos. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Proposal passes, @MedwayTories vote in favour, @MedwayLabour oppose along with Cllrs Craven, Pendergast, Freshwater. Cllr @AC4Twydall abstains. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
#MedwayCouncil Cllr Joy turns down the opportunity to speak. He really is just happy to be here.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Not quite sure how Medway People’s Voice managed to sneak their original logo into this meeting, but they’ve got it up in a prime spot. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/Cv7LL8qBFF
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Debate between Cllr Jarrett & Cllr Freshwater on the definition of a "public meeting". Freshwater says it was a "parish council meeting, not a public meeting". Jarrett apologises and clarifies it was a "parish council meeting held in public and open to the public". #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
We're now discussing the location of polling stations in upcoming elections. Broadly the same as they are now, but you can see the list for yourself here: https://t.co/hzgdLYeviV #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Polling station locations are approved. Bring on the voting! #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
We're now discussing the allocation of committee seats, caused by Cllrs @AC4Twydall, @mickpendergast, and Craven declaring independence from their groups. Their committee seats will now become vacant as who would want independents to sit in committees anyway? #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Cllr Freshwater is now walking out of the meeting in protest and says he won’t attend any further #MedwayCouncil meetings. pic.twitter.com/mJyyIsgQMF
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
We have skipped Cllr @naushabahkhan's motion on rental evictions as so many councillors will need to leave for it. It'll be moved to the end of the meeting. As such, we're now discussing @CllrDanMcD's motion on modern slavery. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/KAwa2g81Mq
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Very important issue raised by @CllrDanMcD. #Modernslavery is a very real problem.
— Anne-Claire Howard (@AC4Twydall) January 24, 2019
Here’s that amendment. Good luck with that. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/68OFjC9Fhw
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Cllr Joy supports the amendment, Cllr @ajpaterson responds that he is "flying by the seat of his pants, and his pants appear to be on fire". Subtle. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
It really looks like @MedwayTories are going to vote against a motion to tackle #modernslavery – despite 69 other councils of all colours adopting the proposals- it genuinely is disgraceful @CoopParty @CoopPartyLocal @LGA_Labour @JustinWelby pic.twitter.com/rk4kTVWBnv
— Naushabah Khan (@naushabahkhan) January 24, 2019
I wonder how @JustinWelby will feel about @gloriaopara now her and her Tory colleagues voted down my motion to strengthen our policy to stop #modernslavery in Medway . pic.twitter.com/ACVMgCnMfC
— Cllr Dan McDonald (@CllrDanMcD) January 24, 2019
Three hours in. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/sRYLCbwNDd
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Those still paying attention Cllr Chishti is still here. #FullCouncilBingo
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Amended version of the motion passes, so now we are onto this motion from Cllr @vincemaple on #MedwayCouncil's lack of preparation for Brexit. pic.twitter.com/hhIwJDPl0L
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
#FullCouncilBingo Cllr Jarrett talks against Labour but not Maple. COME ON.
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Cllr Doe calls out Cllr @naushabahkhan for her obviously ludicrous claim that the government is "in total chaos". Strong and stable and all that. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Cllr @TurpinRupert now talking about how Australia "literally had a Brexit". What? #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Councillor @TurpinRupert ‘a no deal Brexit will be like the millennium bug…’ nothing to worry about here folks… @MedwayLabour @MedwayTories #medwaycouncil #Brexit #nodeal @peoplesvote_hq @UKLabour pic.twitter.com/5FVPsGo8wP
— Naushabah Khan (@naushabahkhan) January 24, 2019
Shockingly, Cllr @vincemaple's motion loses, with @MedwayLabour, @AC4Twydall, @mickpendergast, Cllr Craven supporting, but @MedwayTories voting against. Cllr Maple highlights how Cllr Freshwater (UKIP) left before motion on UKIP's biggest issue. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Cllr Murray (Lab) goes to second the motion, but Cllr Doe (Con) manages to jump in ahead of her. Looks like motion has cross party support though. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Motion passes unanimously. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
This is Cllr @naushabahkhan's motion that is now being debating. #MedwayCouncil pic.twitter.com/KEAYGKZCor
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
Numbers in the chamber: @MedwayTories 20, @MedwayLabour 9, as well as 3 independents. Pretty unprecedented. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
I can’t believe i missed Cllr Chishti leaving! But leave early he did… #FullCouncilBingo
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
In a result that will surprise no one, the motion falls. @MedwayLabour vote in favour supporting by @mickpendergast, Craven, but @MedwayTories oppose. @AC4Twydall abstains. #MedwayCouncil
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019
So thats the end of the first #FullCouncilBingo and #MedwayCouncil Meeting. No Bingo. No Corners. @LiaMandaracas got two lines (Claim your prizes from @Ed_Jennings) and a third line went unclaimed!
— The Political Medway (@MedwayPolitics) January 24, 2019