A Church of England canon has been removed from his long-standing role as chair of a council standards board in Calderdale, after Reform UK took control of the authority following local elections.

Canon Hilary Barber, vicar of Halifax Minster, told The Church Times he was “clearly disappointed” to be ousted from the independent position he had held for 16 years.

Council standards boards are independent panels that help make sure councillors behave properly. They look at complaints about conduct, such as whether elected members have followed rules, declared interests, or acted fairly. Their role is to maintain public trust and ensure local government is transparent and accountable.

Reform UK, which now holds 34 of 54 council seats, also abolished several scrutiny committees at its first annual general meeting, leaving only one overview and scrutiny body in place.

Opposition parties have accused the new leadership of reducing oversight, while Labour said the changes would “weaken the mechanisms designed to hold decision-makers accountable and ensure transparency”.

Labour also said the administration had “broke further with convention” by appointing its own councillors to all chair positions across committees.

In a joint letter, opposition councillors praised Canon Barber’s service, saying his “commitment, integrity and thoughtful leadership have been greatly valued throughout your time in the role”.

Canon Barber said he had not been given an explanation for his removal, adding there had been “no discussion” with council leadership about his role.

He also said there appeared to be a deliberate move to avoid independent scrutiny, describing the changes as a “sad day for the people of Calderdale”.

Premier has contacted Reform UK for comment.