Unpalatable choices have been forced on all councils as they struggle with increased demand for services, especially in adults and children’s social care, and rising costs in the delivery of those services.
Last Thursday, 20th February, there was a full council meeting to set the council’s budget for the next financial year and as a result, I find myself reflecting on the state of local politics.
I wanted to say thank you to all the members of the community who worked to help get eligible pensioners up for pension tax credit before Christmas.
In setting this year’s budget, we have three strategic objectives. First, to focus help on those who need it most; second, to plan for the long term; and third, to secure the benefits of working in partnership.
Wokingham MP Clive Jones has condemned the £3bn bailout of Thames Water, worsening the future burden upon bill-payers. The Liberal Democrats have called for the company to be put into special administration.
This week, influenced in part by the recent Winnersh by-election, I want to return to a topic that I have raised before – the way in which politics is conducted.
November marks Islamophobia Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the experiences of Muslim communities in the UK and to stand with them against prejudice, discrimination and hatred.
Ed Davey remembers Ming Campbell in remarks made to the House of Commons
October has arrived, bringing with it Black History Month - a time to celebrate the Black British community and their past, present and future contributions.
