MEMBERS have approved changes to Dorset County Council’s cabinet.

The new-look cabinet, the authority’s top decision-making body, was approved at a full meeting of the council this morning.

The reshuffle comes after cabinet member for environment and the economy Cllr Hilary Cox decided to step down after 13 years as a cabinet member.

Her role will be taken by Cllr Peter Finney, who was previously cabinet member for community and public health, with his brief going to new cabinet member Cllr Colin Jameson.

The rest of the cabinet will remain as before with Cllr Spencer Flower as leader, Cllr Robert Gould as deputy leader and cabinet member for corporate resources, Cllr Toni Coombs holding the education and communications brief, Cllr Jill Haynes responsible for adult social care and Cllr Rebecca Knox overseeing families and children’s safeguarding.

Cllr Flower paid tribute to the contribution of Cllr Cox during her time as a member of the cabinet.

He said: “Hilary Cox has a proud record of achievement, not only for the residents in her county division but also the significant contribution she had made during her time as a member of the cabinet.

“I would also like to take the opportunity to thank Hilary for her personal support during my first year as leader.”


The leader also welcomed Cllr Jamieson to the cabinet.
He said: “This role fits well with his previous experience as chairman of the council’s public health overview committee.

“I’m sure Colin will be a tremendous asset to the cabinet team.”

At the meeting Cllr John Wilson was re-appointed as chairman of the county council for a sixth term, while Cllr Andrew Cattaway will continue as his vice chairman.

Cllr Wilson told fellow councillors: “I regard it a great honour to be invited to continue as your chairman for a sixth year and I’ve very happy to assure you all that I will continue to do my job to the best of my ability.”