The exodus was in protest at the ruling the Labour Group's decision to suspend Council business to avoid debating motions opposing GM crops, the fluoridation of Oxford’s water supply, the future of Council housing and asylum seekers. All the motions were critical of the Government’s line on these issues.

Labour Leader Alex Hollingsworth claimed that the irregular constitutional procedure was only intended to delay, rather than stifle, debate to allow more time for informed discussion. Green Councillor Mike Woodin pointed out, however, that by delaying responses to the motions the Council would not meet Government consultation deadlines. It was also unclear where, if anywhere, these motions could reasonably be debated if removed from the main Council agenda.