PRESS RELEASE: Lib Dems respond to Parsons Unsuccessful LGA Campaign

Reacting to the news that David Parsons, Leader of Leicestershire County Council has failed in his bid to become Chairman of the Local Government Association, Liberal Democrat leader Simon Galton has offered his condolences but stressed that it is now time to get back to dealing with local issues and priorities here in Leicestershire.

Simon said: "I'm sure David is disappointed at the outcome especially when he has spent so much time and effort on his campaign over the past 6 months. Whilst it could have been beneficial for Leicestershire, to have someone local in this key national position flying the flag for local government, it would have taken a huge amount of time and effort and meant a lot of time away in London. In my view, the long campaign has distracted his attention away from the problems facing the County Council at this difficult time particularly the implementation of the recent budget which requires the Council to reduce spending and cut services by £80 million over the next 4 years. We are keen to see David refocus his attention on issues such as the continual loss of services and dealing with cuts which are now taking affect throughout the County."