Cuts in Frontline Services feared under new Tory Proposals

5.03.08pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 14th May 2004

The Liberal Democrats are concerned that Conservative proposals for so-called "efficiency savings" may, in practice, mean a reduction to the Council's frontline services, such as the youth service or libraries. The Lib Dems have repeatedly asked the Conservative administration to provide adequate details about their proposals but, so far, the information provided has been vague and inadequate.

... efficiency savings may mean a reduction in frontline services

County Councillor Hazel Watson, the new Leader of the Liberal Democrats on Surrey County Council said: "The Conservative administration at County Hall has been quick to blame the Government for lack of funding, but slow to make efficiency savings."

More than a year ago, the Lib Dems pressed for the Council to undertake a detailed examination of its expenditure, but the Conservative Administration has been slow to act and not very clear about what they are really proposing. The Liberal Democrats have also put forward proposals for making efficiency savings without affecting frontline services, such as the youth service. The Lib Dem proposals include reductions in:

• the millions of pounds spent on consultants,

• high energy costs of County Council buildings,

• agency staff costs by improving recruitment and retention, and

• the communications budget, which has increased by nearly 36% this year.

Hazel Watson added, "The council has also set aside £17 million this year from the sale of assets to cover possible future difficulties arising from the privatised waste contract. That is £17 million that could otherwise have been used to fund frontline services such as road repairs and the youth service."