Lib Dems Oppose Scrutiny Cuts (Scarborough and Whitby Liberal Democrats)

Scarborough and Whitby Liberal Democrats <info@scarboroughandwhitbylibdems.org.uk>

Lib Dems Oppose Scrutiny Cuts

May 21, 2010 5:00 AM

Liberal Democrats at County Hall are disappointed at today's decision by the ruling Conservatives to cut scrutiny provision at the Council.

Overview and scrutiny committees were introduced in 2000 to give councillors of all parties a chance to examine the work of the Council's powerful ruling Executive.

Until now there have been nine committees dealing with a range of areas such as Environment & Heritage, Young People and Transport & Telecommunications.

But today the Tory majority on the County Council voted to cut the number of committees down to five. This is supposed to save £100,000 a year in reduced staffing and fewer allowances paid to committee Chairs and Vice-Chairs.

Geoff Webber, Leader of the Liberal Democrats at North Yorkshire County Council, said:

"We all know that times are hard for local government, and savings must be found. But why is scrutiny taking all of the hit? I don't see any cuts to the Executive members' allowances or support. It looks as though the Conservative bosses want to reduce opportunities to hold them to account."

Councillor Webber continued:

"Effective scrutiny is vital if the Council is to perform well. This change can only jeopardise that."