The Richmond and Twickenham Green Party has accused Liberal Democrat councillors of "shocking" attendance at Full Council meetings, a claim the ruling group has defended as "part of real life".

At the Full Council meeting on Tuesday, 27 January, the Liberal Democrat benches had several empty seats, with 13 councillors absent.

This prompted the Leader of the Opposition, Cllr Andrée Frieze, to criticise what she described as a lack of commitment from some "serial offenders".

She said: "It is shocking to see councillors failing to turn up to represent their residents. While some of these absences are down to illness, annual leave, caring responsibilities or bereavement, others are serial offenders who regularly miss meetings.

"At December's Full Council meeting, eight Liberal Democrats did not attend either.

"This is the problem when you have such a large domination by one political party. Some members become complacent and do the bare minimum for their residents.

"At the local elections in May, residents have the opportunity to vote for more hard-working Green councillors to represent them and their concerns, or put up with just another Liberal Democrat who may not even bother to attend meetings on their behalf."

The opposition leader argued that Full Council meetings take place six times a year and are the only opportunity for all councillors to come together to address public concerns, including through members' questions and petitions.

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However, Richmond Council Leader Cllr Gareth Roberts disagreed with Cllr Frieze's stance, saying residents care more about councillors being "present in the community when it matters" than attendance in the council chamber alone.

Cllr Roberts told Nub News: "Residents care most about knowing their councillors are working hard for them, whether it is listening to concerns, helping with local issues, or being present in the community when it matters. That work takes many forms and happens every day, not just in the council chamber.

"Councillors are people too. Like many residents, they balance work, family, health and long-standing commitments, and occasionally that means they can't attend every meeting. That doesn't reflect a lack of commitment – it's simply part of real life.

"What should give residents confidence is the time and dedication councillors of all parties show in serving residents, whether through casework, community meetings or advocating on behalf of local people. That commitment is what ultimately makes a difference to residents' lives."

Under Section 85(1) of the Local Government Act 1972, a councillor will cease to be a member of the Council if they fail to attend any meeting of the Council (or a committee, sub-committee or formally appointed body) for six consecutive months, unless the Council has agreed a reason for their absence in advance.

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