THE leader of Barnet Council has announced he will step down from the post next month.

Councillor Mike Freer says he has made the decision to concentrate on his bid for the marginal Finchley and Golders Green Parliamentary seat at the next general election.

The 49-year-old is quitting his post as the leader of the Conservative group at their next group meeting on December 10, but will stay in charge of the council until the meeting on December 15.

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He said: “It has been an enormous privilege to serve as Leader, and I am proud that Barnet now punches above its weight nationally, is on a firm financial footing and provides good services.

“I have decided to step down now to give a new Leader time to take the Council through the budget process and bed in before the elections in May.

 “After my departure I will be focusing on my role as Conservative candidate for the Finchley and Golders Green constituency and serving the residents of my ward.”

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