Lib Dems react to Cabinet budget additions

Liberal Democrats have responded to the Tory cabinet which has approved spending of an additional £1.1m in the budget.

Sarah Hill Lib Dem Deputy Leader said: "I must admit I am very disappointed that Mr Parsons has chosen not to include a single penny to help reduce the disproportionate cuts to youth services in the County. At a time when our young people are faced with youth unemployment and rapid changes to family circumstances, it is essential that services are provided that all young people can access regardless of need."

She continued: "At the same time, Mr Parsons has chosen to do nothing about the Historic and environmental records that county has accumulated and maintained. Although these databases may seem trivial they provide important information for preservation work and planning issues. Without them I am concerned that we are leaving ourselves open to problems later."

Simon Galton, Lib Dem Leader said: "on a positive note, Mr Parsons has finally accepted our suggestion that some money should be invested in the discretionary elements of the Concessionary Travel scheme. We are pleased that he has listened to us on this, and we have been able to protect a vital service to rural areas.

I am however very concerned at the decision to allocate £150,000 to the Voluntary and community Sector. The money should be welcomed, but it will only scratch the surface of reductions that local charities and community groups will experience as the Council withdraws a number of frontline services. It is also very unclear what this money is actually for, and I would have liked to see a bigger investment to support local groups in genuine capacity building."

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