West of England Metro Mayor and MP Faces Legal Action Threat

Dan Norris, who serves as both the West of England Metro Mayor and the Labour MP for North East Somerset and Hanham, is facing a threat of legal action. This threat stems from remarks he made during an appearance on the BBC’s Politics West programme, where he stated that “there were issues” concerning Patricia Greer, Weca’s former chief executive. Dr. Greer, who received a £219,000 pay-off upon her departure from the position in August 2023 after previously filing a grievance against Mr. Norris, asserted: “Dan Norris’ comments about myself were incorrect and a complete misrepresentation of my reasons for leaving.” The BBC has sought a statement from Mr. Norris regarding the matter. Dr. Greer further stated the existence of a confidentiality agreement, which she affirmed she had “continued to respect and abide by.” She issued a warning, declaring: “If there are further breaches of the confidentiality agreement and comments made which bring me into disrepute, which are again misrepresentations, then I will have no other choice but to respond to correct these to protect my professional reputation.” Dr. Greer alleges that Mr. Norris’ remarks made on the BBC’s Politics West programme on 24 November constituted a violation of the confidentiality agreement. Such agreements are standard practice in dispute resolutions, and their breach can lead to injunctions, financial damages, and, in extreme instances, criminal charges. During the programme, when questioned about the number of chief executives who had served under his tenure, Dan Norris responded: “We had one permanent chief executive, but there were issues about her.” Weca comprises three council areas: Bristol, South Gloucestershire, and Bath and North East Somerset. Dr. Greer played a key role in the formation of Weca and had held the position of its chief executive since 2017. A disagreement arose between Dr. Greer and Mr. Norris in 2022, a year following his election as Metro Mayor. In July 2024, Mr. Norris was also elected as the Labour MP for North East Somerset and Hanham, where he unseated the then-Conservative MP, Jacob Rees-Mogg. While Mr. Norris presently occupies both roles, modifications to Labour Party rules will preclude him from seeking re-election for Weca in May of the upcoming year. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding the BBC’s external linking policy is available.