Norfolk County Council voted on 28 May to eliminate political assistant posts from its staffing structure, ending roles that supported political groups on the council.

The move was proposed by council Leader Cllr David Bick and seconded by Deputy Leader Cllr Robin Hunter-Clarke. Before the vote could take place, opposition councillors attempted to delay the decision — Cllr Maxine Webb moved a procedural motion to push the item to the July 2026 full council meeting, but this was defeated 46 votes to 32.

The substantive recommendation to remove the posts was then carried by 46 votes to 14, with 17 abstentions.

Political assistants are council-employed staff whose role is to support the work of political groups, distinct from politically neutral officers who serve the council as a whole. Their use by local authorities has sometimes drawn scrutiny over value for money.

The decision comes as Norfolk County Council faces a significant financial gap of £41.6 million identified in its Medium Term Financial Strategy, with the new administration signalling a focus on efficiency and frontline services.