Reform UK council chair resigns after ‘illegally renting out unsafe properties’

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Neha Gohil Midlands correspondentJanuary 29, 2026 at 11:03 PM

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Edward Harris, the Reform UK chair of Warwickshire county council, resigned after being accused of illegally renting out unsafe properties in Staffordshire. Tamworth borough council found Harris owned two unlicensed houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) with serious safety failures, including lack of heating, hot water, and working fire alarms. The council described Harris as a "rogue landlord" who ignored repeated warnings about the properties' dangerous conditions. Harris stated he takes full accountability for the state of the homes. The situation is potentially embarrassing for Reform UK, as other party members have voiced concerns about poorly managed HMOs. The Reform leader of the council acknowledged the resignation and thanked Harris for his service.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Gorton and Denton 40% George Finch 40% Greater Manchester 40% Touchstone 50% Matt Goodwin 50% Lee Anderson 50% Staffordshire 60% Warwickshire 60% Tamworth borough council ×370% Reform UK ×480% Edward Harris ×690%

Keywords

unsafe properties 90% hmo 80% illegal renting 80% reform uk 70% council chair resigns 70% rogue landlord 60% safety failures 50% property standards 50% housing 40%