We’re pursuing innovative solutions

Published: 3 March, 2011

• COUNCILLOR Don Williams claims that 25 per cent of library funding is being cut over the next three years whereas the overall reduction in government funding is 10 per cent of Camden’s spending (Why is this service singled out for such heavy reductions? February 24). This is, in a word, inaccurate. 

The overall reduction to Camden’s spending is not 10 per cent. Over the four years of the spending review, central government support to local government is estimated to fall by at least 26 per cent. It is erroneous to compare the figure for reductions in library service over the next three years to the figure for government grants for one year.

Cllr Williams is fully aware we are pursuing the kinds of innovative solutions he has listed, including encouraging volunteering. He is also aware we have already taken out £400,000 from the library service through efficiencies such as reduced back office and shared procurement for stock.

CLLR TULIP SIDDIQ
Labour cabinet member for culture