Labour’s people will be hit

Published: 20 January, 2011

• COUNCILLOR Meric Apak’s letter (An emotive balancing act, January 13) suggesting a referendum to seek the views of the electorate now that the council is faced by major changes in the financial environment was a breath of fresh air. 

The very idea of elected representatives actually using democracy to determine how to proceed in such situations once in power is refreshing.

If the council sticks to its electoral promise of freezing council tax that will, in practice, mean that they are directly responsible for inflicting yet more cuts to services upon which so many needy people depend.  

A significant proportion of traditional Labour supporters will be hit hardest by such additional cuts on top of the savage cuts due to the coalition slashing government grant to the council. 

Rents and service charges for council tenants and leaseholders are due to rise significantly which, together with the increase in VAT, will hit the poorest hardest while they simultaneously face deteriorating services. 

In the event of a decision to raise council tax by the rate of inflation (at a minimum) to prevent further service cuts the most needy would be protected from any increase. 

However, those in lower-paid employment, who struggle without financial help, may indeed be the people who would lose services upon which they depend.  

The Labour administration faces a dilemma. 

There is a financial cost to democracy. 

Cutting services costs the most vulnerable dear. And in the fullness of time there will be a political cost also. 

FRAN HERON
Chair Camden Town District Management Committee, NW1