Call on Labour MP to explain support for poor deal for Wolverhampton

9.30.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 8th Feb 2008

Councillor Robin Lawrence with Liberal Democrat Leader Nick Clegg

Liberal Democrats in Wolverhampton South West are calling on Labour MP Rob Marris to explain why he backed a cash settlement that is below the average rise given to other councils.

Rob Marris MP voted for Wolverhampton Council to have a rise of only 3.0%, less than the average of 3.6%.

"The low rise in the amount of money from central government to help pay towards Wolverhampton's costs will mean a tight year ahead for local services," said Park Ward Councillor Robin Lawrence. "The rise barely takes into account inflation and the additional costs of services the government requires councils to provide.

"The end result is that councils are being forced to increase council tax above inflation and cut services. It is a case of pay more and get less under Labour. So I find it remarkable that Rob Marris voted for this poor deal. Local residents and council tax payers are owed an explanation. The only party to vote against the council cash plans in Parliament and stand up for local residents were the Liberal Democrats, all bar three Conservative MPs abstained proving how much they care about the proper funding of Wolverhampton Council."