THE new MP for Leigh has been criticised for remaining in her councillor position after her election win.

Jo Platt was elected in her new parliamentary role in June but will continue to serve the ward of Astley and Mosley Common until the next local election which has yet to be announced

During this time, she will still be paid for her duties as a councillor and be eligible to claim expenses from Wigan Council.

UKIP chairman for Leigh Jayson Lomax-Hargreaves said: “It is totally inappropriate that Jo will be paid by taxpayers in two positions.

“In my opinion, she should have stepped down from her councillor duties the day after winning the election which would have been the right thing to do.

“I also do not think she will be able to serve the people of Astley and Mosley Common to the best of her ability now that she has the added responsibility of being an MP.”

Jo Platt has served her ward since 2012 and was the portfolio holder for children and young people services at the council before she was elected into parliament.

She said: “I am very proud to serve Astley and Mosley Common and it is a role I have always taken very seriously and done my very best to help residents and represent their views at council.

“Since becoming elected as MP for Leigh in June this year, I have answered residents concerns, held open surgeries with my two ward colleagues, Cllr Taylor and Cllr Roberts, as well as undertaking my parliamentary responsibilities.

“I have not received any expenses from Wigan Council since becoming an MP.

“It has always been my intention to stand down from my position as ward councillor at the earliest opportunity.

“This will be dictated by what is in the best interests of the area that I represent and not by opposition parties.”

Leader of Wigan Council Lord Peter Smith said: “Jo Platt, as an elected local councillor, continues to play an active role on behalf of her ward constituents.

“She still serves her local community better than many council members.”

To contact Jo about any concerns e-mail joanne.platt@wigan.gov.uk.