THE TOY TOWN ECONOMICS OF SOMERSET’S LIBERAL DEMOCRATS (11/04/05)

Fearing defeat in local elections on 5th May, Liberal Democrats on Somerset County Council have been panicked into issuing a press release about budget savings less than a month before polling day and just days into the new financial year.

Despite being in control for twelve years, the Lib Dems appear unaware that an organisation needs to manage its funds so that it can properly plan efficient provision of services. Surprisingly, the Lib Dems failed to identify these savings in time to incorporate them into their budget.

Instead, a council press release, slipped out last Friday just after some local newspapers had gone to press, revealed the council was planning to cut spending in a number of areas including highway contracts and the County Hall payroll system.

“This is a cynical attempt to forestall defeat in the forthcoming local elections. The people of Somerset will not be fooled,” said Conservative leader Councillor Christopher Wolverson. “The Liberal Democrats have had twelve years to make efficiency savings. To leave it this late and to expect the people of Somerset to believe they are truly committed to efficiency simply beggars belief.”

The press release also revealed that almost half the planned savings will be “non-cashable savings” which the council defines as being “those where the gains do not necessarily lead to lower costs”.

“Under the Liberal Democrats, Council Tax has almost doubled in eight years,” said Councillor Wolverson. “Now they are trying to pretend they can make savings without reducing costs. This is Toy Town economics. They must think the people of Somerset are very gullible indeed. In truth I think they are rattled by the fact that the Conservatives have promised to reduce the council’s budget on the day after we are elected and return the savings to the people.”

Ends

Notes to Editors:

For further information, contact Christopher Wolverson, Leader of the Conservative Group, Somerset County Council, 01823 430628