Leader of the Council


A Leader of the Council is the leader of the largest political group on a local government council in the United Kingdom.

United Kingdom

England and Wales

In local government in England and Wales, following the Local Government Act 2000, the position of Leader of the Council could be used in Cabinet-style councils as an executive position chairing a cabinet. Councils could adopt alternative arrangements, such as the leadership role being taken by the mayor.

Scotland

In local government in Scotland the Leader of the Council is elected as the leader of the largest political grouping of councillors in a local authority. The Leader of the Council has no executive or administrative powers designated by statute, but the position is salaried.