Announcing his decision, Telford & Wrekin's Ketley and Overdale Councillor Mark Boylan was critical of how the authority's Conservative group is operating, claiming it has politicised the inquiry into Child Sexual Exploitation and that the Tory government has failed to protect Princess Royal Hospital.

It comes as health bosses agreed a move to close the hospital's A&E at night for up to six months.

Councillor Boylan said: “I can’t stand by and watch our hospital being downgraded when I know this Conservative Government could implement a rescue plan.

“I can’t stand by and watch as Conservatives politicise the inquiry into Child Sexual Exploitation. They have taken every opportunity to make a political issue out of a very human tragedy.

Committed

“I’m shocked by the Conservatives' lack of direction and vision for our town. For years there has been no alternative plan. Meanwhile, Labour has been winning businesses, creating homes, jobs and regenerating our town. The Conservatives have frankly offered nothing.

“That is why I’m joining the Telford & Wrekin Labour Party. I believe that the residents I represent across Lawley, Overdale and Ketley are the priority of this Labour council.

“I remain committed to the constituents of Ketley and Overdale, the place I call home.”

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Labour’s council leader Shaun Davies said: “I would like to welcome Mark to our group, Mark works really hard for his residents and I am delighted he has joined us.

“I know from speaking with Mark that he has had major concerns for quite some time about the behaviour of Conservatives locally and nationally.

“I look forwards to working with Mark in the months and years to come to make Telford and Wrekin an even better place to live, work and visit.”