Birmingham Labour Cabinet Member Resigns Amid Health Concerns and Complaint Investigation
Councillor Jamie Tennant, a senior Labour figure on Birmingham City Council, has stepped down from his cabinet role, citing ill-health linked to an ongoing complaint investigation. The resignation marks a significant development in a case that has drawn attention to allegations of inappropriate conduct within local politics.
Resignation Accepted Amid Uncertainty
Coun Tennant has resigned after weeks of uncertainty surrounding a complaint submitted last September. He remains a city councillor but has relinquished his high-profile position as cabinet member for social justice, community safety and equalities. Labour leader Councillor John Cotton, who appointed Tennant to the role last May, confirmed he had accepted the resignation.
Allegations of Inappropriate Language
Young Conservative Hugo Rasenberg had been leading calls for Tennant's removal, alleging the councillor used aggressive, sexually charged terms during a fraught election count dispute in 2024. Rasenberg claims Tennant called him 'a twink' and 'eye candy' and suggested he was only appointed to his role supporting former Tory mayor Andy Street because he was 'nice to look at'.
Rasenberg, now aged 20 and seeking a seat on the city council in May, stated the abusive comments were unacceptable. He emphasized the importance of speaking out about such behavior, noting that many young people encountering abuse in politics simply walk away due to unclear HR processes.
Separate Complaint and Investigation
BirminghamLive can reveal that Coun Tennant had also been facing considerable pressure over rumours around his private life and a subsequent formal complaint about improper use of council premises for sex. This complaint was made to the Labour Party and Labour group led by Coun Cotton last September.
We understand no action was taken against Coun Tennant by the Labour Party or by the Labour group on the council as a result of this complaint, and he fervently denied any wrongdoing.
MP Office Suspension and Dismissal
A separate complaint on similar grounds, submitted to Sarah Edwards, Labour MP for Tamworth where Coun Tennant was head of office, resulted in his suspension pending an investigation. He was subsequently dismissed on the grounds of gross misconduct, though this was unconnected to the complaint of impropriety.
According to the written complaint seen by BirminghamLive, claims of inappropriate behaviour in public offices had become 'common knowledge' among Labour members and were the source of gossip and innuendo, including at last year's Labour Party conference. The complainant claimed the party and MP were being brought into disrepute as a result of the alleged activity.
Personal Distress and Denial
We understand the claims were the cause of considerable distress to Coun Tennant, who is gay, and his partner and family. The councillor has consistently denied any wrongdoing throughout the investigation process.
Council Response and Current Status
A council spokesperson confirmed: "Birmingham City Council leader Coun John Cotton has today accepted Coun Jamie Tennant's resignation from his role as cabinet member for social justice, community safety and equalities."
The council has reached out to Coun Tennant to discuss the matter, but he has declined the invitation and is currently on sick leave. Coun Cotton declined to respond to inquiries about his handling of the Rasenberg and subsequent complaints.
The resignation comes at a sensitive time for Birmingham City Council, which continues to navigate various challenges while maintaining public confidence in its leadership and governance structures.
