Lib Dems Slam Tory Bus Cuts

2.37.03pm GMT Mon 27th Feb 2006

Liberal Democrats on North Yorkshire County Council have supported a Labour amendment to the budget which would have protected rural bus services against a £200,000 cut.

However, this amendment was defeated by Conservative and Independent votes.

Whitby Lib Dem councillor Rob Broadley said:

"I am appalled by the whipped vote to throw this amendment out."

"Many of the Conservative County Councillors raised concerns about the proposed cuts to rural bus services at the recent Area Committee meeting, supporting the rural residents who attended. Councillor Herbert Tindall handed in a petition against the cuts, and admits he received around a thousand letters of objection. But then when it comes to Full Council, they have all voted to support the cuts."

"Supportive words mean little unless they are backed up by action."

"Many rural residents rely on bus services to get access to health services, particularly since the recent changes at Whitby Hospital. These cuts could have a devastating effect on vulnerable members of society."