The Isle of Wight MP's has called for 'stability' in the wake of the Conservatives losing their County Hall majority.
Bob Seely has been congratulating and commiserating candidates standing in the Isle of Wight elections.
Attention is now turning to the formation of a coalition, after the Tories managed only 18 of the 20 seats required to take back control of the local authority.
Mr Seely says he hopes a working majority can be found. He's called for a 'common vision', regardless of what coalition is chosen.
He said:
“Whilst Conservatives have lost some council seats, they remain the largest party on the Council. I hope that they are able to find and form a working majority. Whatever coalition is chosen, the Island needs stability and leadership, as well as a common vision that we can work together to achieve.
“I will be writing to all new and re-elected County Councillors next week to congratulate them, but also to outline a common agenda that I believe elected leaders of the Island should be working towards."
Mr Seely has also thanked former council leader Dave Stewart, who lost his seat to the Green Party's Claire Critchison.
He added:
“I thank Dave Stewart for his leadership and wish him well for the future. After a chaotic period under the control of independents, Dave helped to bring stability to the Council. We need to keep that stability going."
It's thought discussions are underway between parties to form a working majority.
Last night's election saw some familiar face retain their seats, and some new councillors enter the political fray.
Most notably, former council leader Jonathan Bacon won in his Brading and St Helens ward.
While former parliamentary candidate for Island Labour, Richard Quigley, unseated the Tories in Cowes North.
You can meet the new and returning councillors here.
Who won in your ward? Find out below...
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