Rival parties have reacted to Cllr Martin Murray's resignation as leader of Staffordshire County Council and as Reform group leader.

Earlier today (27 October), it was announced that Cllr Murray would be stepping down.

Stafford Labour has criticised Reform UK, highlighting that Cllr Murray's exit means the party is set to have its fourth group leader since taking control of Staffordshire County Council in May 2025.

They added that "Two leaders have left due to being exposed for their racist behaviour, and now Martin Murray is walking away without explanation.

"Our county deserves better."

Cllr Philip White, leader of the Conservative Group on Staffordshire County Council said: "It is deeply concerning that Staffordshire County Council, one of the largest local authorities in the country, is now on to its fourth Reform UK leader in a year and a half.

"Residents deserve stability and a council that is focused on delivering for them, not one caught up in a revolving door at the top.

"Decisions on our roads, our schools and care for our most vulnerable people need steady leadership, and right now Reform simply cannot provide it.

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"Conservative councillors will continue to hold the administration to account and stand up for every community in Staffordshire."

In a statement, Staffordshire Labour MPs Leigh Ingham (Stafford), Jacob Collier (Burton and Uttoxeter), Dave Robertson (Lichfield), Adam Jogee (Newcastle-under-Lyme), Josh Newbury (Cannock Chase) and Sarah Edwards (Tamworth) said: "Reform's leadership shambles and a succession of serious racism scandals are an embarrassment to our proud county.

"Their vetting has failed Staffordshire, and while they tie themselves in knots, residents are left wondering who is actually in charge.

"Staffordshire needs a council focused on fixing the roads, the crisis in SEND and buses that don't turn up - not more Reform chaos and months of uncertainty.

"The council's motto is 'The knot unites', but Reform's record has been one of chaos and division.

"They need to stop letting Staffordshire down and get on with the job."