The people of Leeds elect 99 councillors to run the authority. The authority’s area is divided into 33 wards, and there are 3 councillors for each ward. They are usually elected for a four year term of office. The current political composition of the council is:
- Labour - 61
- Conservative - 22
- Liberal Democrat - 6
- Morley Borough Independents - 5
- Garforth and Swillington Independent Group - 3
- Green Party - 2
Find your local councillor
The council has adopted a code of conduct to ensure high standards in the way councillors go about their duties. They must disclose their financial interests in the council's register of interests.
Why are councillors important?
Leeds councillors provide a voice to the people living in the ward that they represent. They are aware of the needs of their community and are in touch with the issues that local people face.
As well as influencing council decisions on funding and development, they work with other organisations, such as the police, local schools and health services to help bring about improvements to services and the environment for their local community.
What does the role involve?
Councillors usually represent a political party, but can also be independent. All councillors act as:
- Representatives of individuals and groups within their ward.
- Community leaders building relationships with key individuals or groups.
- Policy makers attending meetings on issues such as housing, social services, schools, planning and the environment.
Council, committees and boards
These meetings involve debating and approving proposals, as well as decision-making. Councillors receive a basic allowance for their position, and may also receive special responsibility allowances in respect of any special roles they have within the council, such as the Chair of a Council Committee.
Councillor allowances
All information regarding councillor allowances paid can be found on the
Leeds Data Mill website.
Other elected representatives
There are also a number of
MPs and MEPswho represent the Leeds area in Parliament and at a European level.
