Wokingham Borough Council has submitted its Local Plan for inspector’s examination. The timing of the submission is important, for it enables the council to realise the benefits of the new plan quickly.
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.
The UK needs to strengthen both our Armed Forces and our soft power.
Today is Holocaust Memorial Day.
The UK must once again stand tall, leading on the world stage and working closely with those who share our interests – including, above all, our partners in Europe.
