Lib Dem spin master departs Drake Street

Date published: 11 November 2009

Controversial Liberal Democrat spin master David Hennigan has departed from his role as MP Paul Rowen's parliamentary agent.

Mr Hennigan was recruited to mastermind Paul Rowen's  campaign at the last General Election, a job he is widely credited with having done well having seen Mr Rowen defeat the then sitting MP Lorna Fitzsimons, albeit with the slenderest of majorities.

However, Mr Hennigan went on to be a victim of his own hubris frequently becoming the news.

It is understood that a series of incidents causing embarrassment to Mr Rowen has led to Mr Hennigan's departure.

Paul Rowen said: “David Hennigan is no longer my parliamentary agent and Adam Power will be taking over these responsibilities. I wish David all the best in the future.”

Labour Group Leader on Rochdale Council, Councillor Colin Lambert, said: "When the story teller becomes the headline story then you know that 'spin' has overtaken the truth.

"When you report an issue you must stay within the realms of reality and not just fantasy. Politicians need to ensure that their views and their policies are reported factually and that they remain in control of their own policy. This did not always happen at Drake Street.

"Whilst Paul Rowen may have sorted out his office, there remains another line of fantasy for the Lib Dem spin machine in the council and I await their response.

Conservative Group Leader on Rochdale Council, Councillor Ashley Dearnley, said: "David Hennigan was a master of spin and will be a significant loss to the Lib Dems. I was never keen on Mr Hennigan because his interest in politics was more important than helping and improving things for the people of the Borough."

At the time of publication Mr Hennigan was not available for comment.