Green Councillors elect new leadership team

Left to Right: Barry Parsons (Whip), Emma Edwards (Leader) and Tim Wye (Deputy Leader)

Bristol’s Green Councillor Group, currently the biggest group on Bristol Council following a recent byelection, has changed its leadership team following internal elections. Group elections usually take place near the end of the year but had been delayed in 2022.

Former Group Leader Heather Mack did not re-stand in the election which saw Emma Edwards elected as Group Leader, Tim Wye elected Deputy Leader and Barry Parsons elected as Group Whip.

“This is a critical year for Greens as we prepare for power under the committee system next year”

Emma Edwards has lived in Bristol all her life and is one of two Green Councillors for Bishopston and Ashley Down. As a councillor Emma has been particularly active on transport campaigns, sharing the Transport role in the Green Group’s shadow cabinet with David Wilcox.

She said:

“I am delighted to have been elected by the Green Group to be leader. This is a critical year for Greens as we prepare for power under the committee system next year. We are now the largest group on Bristol Council, and this indicates Bristol residents are keen for change. People want an accountable council that listens to residents and takes practical action to make our city a better place to live. In the meantime I will continue to help Greens scrutinise council decisions and fight for social and environmental justice as the main opposition group.”

Outgoing Group Leader Heather Mack said:

“I’m standing down after a rewarding and very interesting term as leader. In my term we called and won a referendum on getting rid of the mayoral system and continued to build on our election success so we’re now the largest group in the council. I’m thrilled to be handing over to Emma – I’ve worked with her for many years, I really respect her and I know she’ll do a great job.”

Tim Wye is a Green Councillor for Ashley Ward and has experience working as a manager at Bristol Council and the NHS, with particular knowledge of Adult Social Care.

Tim said:

“I am really pleased to take on the role of deputy leader in the Green Group. With my background in the public sector I feel I will be able to support Emma in her new role of Group Leader.”

Barry Parsons, the Green Group’s new whip, is one of two Green councillors in Easton and has been very active in supporting the local campaign to save Redfield Cinema. The role of whip is one required by the Council – Greens do not force individuals to toe the party line like other parties, and the whip position tends to manage cross-party negotiations and support group members.

Barry said:

“I’m looking forward to working with Emma and Tim as the Green group’s new whip. My role is to support a cohesive and effective Green team that’s ready to lead in Bristol.”