Conservative councillor Ed Godwin has stepped aside from the One Nation Conservative Network, becoming the latest figure to leave the centrist Conservative organisation.
His announcement follows the resignation of the network's founder and former chair Cody Butler, who also ended his membership of the Conservative Party.
Unlike Mr Butler, Councillor Godwin has made clear that he is remaining within the party and intends to concentrate on helping the Conservatives return to electoral success.
Ed Godwin announces his departure
In a statement posted on X, Councillor Godwin said:
After some reflection, I've decided to step aside from the One Nation Conservative Network.
I'm grateful to Cody for his leadership in getting it going, and to the whole team for their efforts.
My focus now is on playing my part in helping the Conservatives win again.
The statement did not identify a disagreement over policy or the network's future direction. It instead presented his departure as a decision to redirect his political efforts towards the wider Conservative Party.
Who is Ed Godwin?
Ed Godwin is the Conservative town councillor for Ashplats North on East Grinstead Town Council.
He was elected in May 2024 at the age of 18, receiving 424 votes. His local Conservative association described him at the time as one of the youngest councillors elected in Sussex.
Councillor Godwin has also served as chairman of the East Grinstead and Uckfield Young Conservatives.
Another change for the One Nation network
His departure comes shortly after Cody Butler resigned as chair of the One Nation Conservative Network and left the Conservative Party, saying he no longer believed there was a home in the party for One Nation Conservatism.
Mr Butler handed the chairmanship to Joseph Cotter-Brooker, who said the organisation would continue its work inside the Conservative Party.
Councillor Godwin's decision therefore represents another loss for the network, but not another Conservative defection. His closing message suggests that his political loyalty remains firmly with the party.
Sources
- Councillor Ed Godwin on X
- East Grinstead and Uckfield Conservatives: Ed Godwin elected in Ashplats North
- Mims Davies: May 2024 election result
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