Hackney’s acting mayor vows to ‘maintain council’s focus’ as Philip Glanville takes leave following Labour suspension

Acting mayor Anntoinette Bramble and Philip Glanville, pictured together last month. Photograph: Julia Gregory

Hackney’s acting mayor has told residents it is business as usual after a turbulent few days that have led to Philip Glanville taking a leave of absence from the top job.

Glanville has been suspended by Labour after a photo emerged of him at a Eurovision party with former councillor Tom Dewey last May – hours after he was told of Dewey’s arrest.

He was informed by the council’s chief executive at around lunchtime on the day of the party, after the council had been contacted by the National Crime Agency (NCA) to discuss safeguarding concerns.

Dewey had been arrested by the NCA on 29 April at the house he shared with Glanville – though it was confirmed at court that Dewey was the “sole occupant” at the time of the raid.

Last month, Dewey was given a 12-month suspended sentence after admitting five charges of possessing 1,850 indecent images of children.

Glanville had previously said that he had “not seen or spoken to Mr Dewey” since becoming aware of the investigation.

This led Labour to suspend Glanville when the photograph came to light, describing it as a “clear contradiction” in his account.

Residents are putting last-minute touches to a planned protest tomorrow calling on Glanville to resign from the £85,000-a -year role.

Deputy mayor Anntoinette Bramble is stepping in, and existing cabinet members are to stay in their jobs, taking on extra responsibilities.

Cllr Bramble said: “I will make sure the council maintains its focus on continuing to serve the people of Hackney to make sure the borough is a fairer, safer, greener and healthier place for everyone.”

She said the council faces a busy time and cabinet will be meeting this month to progress “many of our plans” to support people in need.

The former schoolteacher said her experience as deputy mayor, as cabinet member for education and children’s services, and as a ward councillor for London Fields gives her a decade of experience.

“I’m proud to have the support of a strong and dedicated cabinet, and corporate leadership team at the council,” she added. “Together we will continue to provide the services residents need.”

The council’s interim chief executive Dawn Carter-McDonald said: “I would like to reassure the people of Hackney that business continues at the council, and we remain resolute in providing the highest standard of services for the borough.”