30 September 2005
London Borough of Camden leader Dame Jane Roberts has vowed to stay in politics in spite of her surprise decision to relinquish the post in November.
Roberts last week announced she would not lead the Labour group's campaign for re-election next summer — sparking reports that the New Labour stalwart has been earmarked for a senior role within Whitehall, or for a parliamentary seat.
Roberts said she would not contest the council's internal leadership election on November 7, effectively ending her five-year tenure, although she could stay on as a councillor.
Roberts told Public Finance this week: 'There is no foundation whatsoever to rumours that I am standing down as Camden's leader knowing that I am moving to another job.
'There is no hidden agenda, I just felt that it was the right time to go. I have always been keen to leave the council in a healthy and stable state, which it now enjoys.'
However, Roberts, a professional psychiatrist, made it clear that she could take on other roles in the near future. 'I am not planning to take time off and do intend to stay very active in politics — it's in my nature. I'll just take my chances about what role that involves.'
A senior local government source told PF that Roberts 'would hardly want for job offers'.
She enjoys a first-rate reputation among local authority leaders and residents, having helped Camden to become one of the top-rated councils in England.
PFsep2005
