A TORY member of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council faces disciplinary action over her support for the Labour opposition.

Cllr Onnalee Cubitt, who has represented the Basing ward on Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council since 2008, has been suspended from the Conservative group after she supported a motion put forward by Labour members last Thursday.

This questioned the integrity of the planning process that has proposed which greenfield sites to build on between now and 2026.

Following the meeting, Cllr Cubitt was suspended by Tory group leader Cllr Robert Donnell, who said Conservative members were “shocked” that she supported the Labour motion.

Cllr Cubitt has been vocal in her opposition to some of the bigger greenfield sites proposed for development, such as Pyotts Hill, east of Chineham, which could have an adverse affect on residents in Old Basing.

Cllr Cubitt told The Gazette: “Ultimately I am not prepared to do anything other than what I believe is right for my residents and my conscience. I am a Conservative through and through but I am a big girl and if I have to go it alone as an independent then that is what I will do.”

Tonight, Conservative councillors will hold a group meeting about the decision to suspend Cllr Cubitt. It could result in her being thrown out of the Tory group on the council.

Cllr Robert Donnell commented: “Cllr Cubitt is a talented councillor who I would wish to remain in the Conservative group, helping us to improved Basingstoke and Deane for all residents. The Labour party proposed a motion which amounted to a motion of confidence and integrity to council on Thursday and we were all shocked and disappointed that Cllr Cubitt supported it.

“Following discussions with senior colleagues, I suspended Cllr Cubitt from the group prior to it being fully discussed at group meeting on Tuesday. I hope that we can reach a compromise which will enable Cllr Cubitt's talents to be used within the Conservative group.”