Labour

The Labour councillors in Buckinghamshire have demonstrated their ability to scrutinise decisions made by the Tory controlled council. Although currently few in number, they have clearly made the leader of the council pay attention to their scrutiny and questions in committee. Many propositions have been made by them which would significantly improve the lives of the residents of Bucks.

One of the pressing needs is for social housing. There are too many families forced to live in overcrowded homes or with relatives and are desperate for a home of their own. Many of the properties currently being built are out of the reach of the ordinary working family. Indeed, Bucks have tightened the conditions for those trying to access social housing in order to bring down the waiting list, a step which makes the list look better but does nothing to home people in need.

Another issue facing more and more families relates to access to support for children with special needs at school. Children are having to wait far too long for help. Schools do their best, but with increasingly limited funding.

Labour members have challenged how Buckinghamshire Council makes provision for dealing with flood threats. These are becoming more frequent and are spreading to more areas of the county. Climate change is real and the effects are showing here, so we must take this seriously.

Labour proposed that Buckinghamshire Council signed up to the White Ribbon campaign, making girls and women safer when using taxis. Licencing regulations and procedures have also been tightened.

Buckinghamshire Council has consulted about the future of day care and respite centres, used widely by vulnerable members of our communities. Despite the decision not due until late in the summer, the ‘savings’ have already been built into the budget, leaving the users and their families with worry and uncertainty. How can this make sense?

One of the difficulties faced by Buckinghamshire Council, along with all local authorities, has been the year on year decrease in financial support from central government. 14 years of Conservative decision making at the top, has strangled local government, having an adverse effect on all services. Recently, Buckinghamshire Council has received additional funding from government. Labour would like to see this spent wisely on those areas which have suffered the most. This will not be easy as so much is in disarray. Yes, potholes need fixing, but peoples’ lives need support too. The people of Buckinghamshire deserve transparency and openness in the local decision-making process. There are now three Labour MPs in the county, all keen to support and improve the situation of the ordinary people.

1st May is an opportunity for local people to vote for councillors who will put them first. Increasing the number of Labour councillors is a great first step on this journey.

From: Robin Stuchbury