George Finch, an 18-year-old Reform UK councillor linked to Nigel Farage, has become the interim leader of Warwickshire County Council — one of the largest local authorities in England. With a £500 million annual budget and a population of over 600,000, the appointment has sparked national interest and raised serious questions around experience, stability, and representation.

Finch stepped in after Reform councillor Rob Howard resigned just 41 days into the job, citing health challenges. Finch had been elected as Howard’s deputy in May, when Reform UK made major gains in Warwickshire, becoming the largest party and forming a minority administration.

Finch, who describes his politics as rooted in “Brexit, sovereignty, strong military and a united family unit”, is now temporarily leading the council until a permanent leader is chosen. His views and political alignment with Farage’s Reform UK have drawn particular scrutiny from minority and immigrant communities across the region.

In comments reported by i News, John Holland, deputy leader of Warwickshire’s Labour group, said:

“Making far-reaching decisions about the lives of our Warwickshire residents… needs people with experience. I don’t want to criticise 18-year-olds – but it does need people with experience.”

Concerns have also been raised over delays to vital decisions, including health visitor contracts for newborns, SEND services, and major transport schemes.

Retired HR professional Jan Meade, speaking to i News, said she was “a little surprised” someone so young could take on such a serious leadership role, adding:

“An 18-year-old having to chair what could be potentially hostile meetings is a little worrying.”

Finch, who has written for Reform UK’s online platform The New Reformer, credits rugby with shaping his leadership skills, and insists the council is in “steady hands”.

“Our mission to deliver for residents remains unchanged,” he said in his official statement.

While some have praised his confidence, others on social media and within Warwickshire’s British Asian community have questioned whether his political background and limited experience are in step with the diverse needs of the region.

Joseph Boam, deputy leader of Leicestershire County Council and fellow Reform UK member, defended Finch on X, calling him:

“A natural leader – calm, principled, and razor sharp.”

For now, George Finch remains interim leader — but the debate over youth, ideology, and representation in British politics is just getting started.