Continuity the key in the Borders

By Giancarlo Rinaldi
South of Scotland reporter, BBC Scotland news website

David Parker has retained his post as leader

It was only eight months ago that the youthful leader of Scottish Borders Council was contemplating stepping down from his post.

Independent David Parker was keen to start a family and was beginning to feel a little tired of the job.

"Although I am still young I have been heavily involved in local politics for many years and perhaps it's time for a break," he said at the time.

This week he was installed again as leader of a new coalition on SBC.

It is a post he has held since 2003 when he took charge of a Conservative and independent alliance.

I am confident that we have a very strong team who will take SBC forward and continue to make some very positive changes for Borders residents Cllr Carolyn Riddell-Carre

Of course, Mr Parker had already shelved his plans to take a sabbatical from political life.

In January he decided to stand again for the new Leaderdale and Melrose ward.

He won a seat on the new authority but his independent group suffered heavy losses - dropping from 13 seats to five.

It meant that the Conservatives and Lib Dems could have formed an administration without the independent group.

As it is, not only did they decide to keep the group on board - they even handed them the leader's post.

"I am more than happy that my colleagues in this new administration have put their faith in my ability to lead the council," said Mr Parker.

"To continue this role will mean to continue to ensure that SBC is working to provide the best possible services at the best possible cost to Borders residents."

The themes of continuity and unity were being emphasised by all the parties involved.

'Extremely pleased'

Conservative group leader Carolyn Riddell-Carre said she was "extremely pleased" the new coalition had been ratified.

"I am confident that we have a very strong team who will take SBC forward and continue to make some very positive changes for Borders residents," she said.

While Alex Nicol, leader of the Liberal Democrats, was excited about their now role in the ruling group.

"Everyone in the new administration is very much looking forward to working together to the benefit of the Borders people and to strengthen SBC's reputation as a forward-thinking and effective local authority," he said.

And, with such a sizeable coalition, there are only six SNP councillors and two from the Borders Party who might possibly disagree.