26-06-2025
Who is George Finch - UK's youngest council leader and Reform's new leader for Warwickshire?
A Reform UK-led council has a new interim leader, thought to be the youngest ever in the UK at 18 years old.
Councillor George Finch was confirmed as the interim leader at Warwickshire County Council, after Cllr Rob Howard stepped down from his post just 41 days into the job.
In a statement, Cllr Howard cited "health challenges", saying it was a "very difficult decision", but that he would continue as a county councillor.
It left political rivals questioning whether Reform UK is "up to the task".
Who is George Finch?
Cllr Finch, who is from Nuneaton, is one of the UK's youngest councillors - with candidates only able to stand for election if they are 18 or older. He represents the Bedworth Central ward.
He has been a main contributor for the Reform-run website The New Reformer, writing articles and featuring in social media videos. At one point, he was named as its Associate Editor.
On a profile page, Cllr Finch describes his main principles: "having integrity, honesty and respect".
He continued: "I've played rugby since I was four, which gave me great team-building skills and leadership skills.
"If I was to be politically summed up in a few words it would be; Brexit, sovereignty, strong military and most importantly a strong and united family unit.
"As I always say who has the strongest shoulder in society must support and help others, as long as they contribute in their own way."
Cllr Finch has previously served as a Youth Councillor for Nuneaton and Bedworth.
Before the General Election last July, Cllr Finch claimed on social media he was "kicked out" of the Conservative party.
In another video, he said he spent three months as a Conservative Party member but was frustrated as he "saw illegal immigration.
What happens next for Warwickshire?
The county council will probably have to go through a selection process for a permanent leader.
It confirmed on Wednesday Cllr Finch will 'serve as interim leader until the council confirms a new leader in due course'.
That is because although Reform UK is the biggest party on Warwickshire County Council, it does not have 'overall majority' - fewer than half of the 57 councillors are Reform.
The new leader needs support from more than half of the council - so Reform councillors in Warwickshire need to draft in support from other parties.
Cllr Howard was appointed with votes from his own party and support from all bar one of the Conservatives who attended May's annual council meeting.
