I do see why people would prefer local politicians to be independent but a lot of the rate payer Councillors were really Conservative. Once one party is involved and offering money to campaign it would mean individuals having to raise their own money to get elected to contest them and that is...
Can't speak for Brighton but it has been one of the great pleasures in my life to help get rid of most of the Conservatives in Worthing, hopefully extending to the two MPs come the General Election.