If you are pessimistic by nature then 2011 holds much in store for you:
(1) Virtual absence of growth in the UK economy with the slight prospect of recession,
(2) Reduction in consumer spending due to inflation, job losses, income freezes/cuts, increase in VAT,
(3) Union action to seek to protect their members' interests,
(4) Reducing house prices,
(5) Next stage of the financial crisis (increase in UK domestic mortgage defaults?; Greece to be first country to leave the euro?; further difficulties for some bank as they seek to refinance existing debts)
Personally I'm optimistic by nature so whilst others see problems I see opportunities to increase community power, reassess what is really important and spend more time working on what is critical rather than what is urgent.
Friday 31 December 2010
Monday 27 December 2010
Elections
The primary purpose of the Conservative Party, like other political parties, is to govern by winning elections. Sadly nobody won the 2010 General Election so we have been saddled with a coalition and now, horror upon horror, there is some suggestion that we would fight the next General Election on that basis.
Let me make my position absolutely clear. I want the Conservative Party to win the next General Election without the assistance of any other political party. The sooner that election takes place the better it will be for the UK. There are already plenty of signs that the Liberal Democrats are unreliable partners (what a surprise) so I can only hope that they decide to walk away sooner rather than later.
What chance a 2011 General Election?
Let me make my position absolutely clear. I want the Conservative Party to win the next General Election without the assistance of any other political party. The sooner that election takes place the better it will be for the UK. There are already plenty of signs that the Liberal Democrats are unreliable partners (what a surprise) so I can only hope that they decide to walk away sooner rather than later.
What chance a 2011 General Election?
Friday 17 December 2010
Make £3,300 for Cornwall
The next national census takes place on 27 March 2011. In 2001 there was a 94% return of census forms in Cornwall. According to information provided by the 2011 Census area manager for Cornwall each additional person included in the 2011 Census will be worth of the order of £330 each year to Cornwall in terms of Government grants.
Considerable efforts will be made to encourage a 100% Census return for Cornwall; anything anyone can do to encourage the achievement of the higest possible return of Census forms will have direct impact on the monies available to spent on local services for the ten years until the 2021 Census.
£330 per year equates to £3,300 over 10 years.
It is disappointing that the 2011 Census will not have a 'tick box' for Cornish origin. There will be a box in which 'Cornish' can be written . However a protest vote by anyone deciding not to complete the Census form, due to the absence of a Cornish 'tick box', might succeed in registering a protest but at the above cost to funding for local services.
Considerable efforts will be made to encourage a 100% Census return for Cornwall; anything anyone can do to encourage the achievement of the higest possible return of Census forms will have direct impact on the monies available to spent on local services for the ten years until the 2021 Census.
£330 per year equates to £3,300 over 10 years.
It is disappointing that the 2011 Census will not have a 'tick box' for Cornish origin. There will be a box in which 'Cornish' can be written . However a protest vote by anyone deciding not to complete the Census form, due to the absence of a Cornish 'tick box', might succeed in registering a protest but at the above cost to funding for local services.
Sunday 12 December 2010
Bankers' Bonuses
I'm clearly missing something. The UK banks have enormous loans granted to them by the Bank of England when the credit markets dried up, with the BoE requiring repayment by end 2012. Without those loans those banks would have gone bust.
The banks with the largest loans are Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds TSB. So the BoE, 100% owned by the taxpayer, is lending to banks partially owned by the taxpayer.
Yet RBS and Lloyds TSB will be paying £100k+ bonuses to certain staff. So why are they not, instead, paying off their loans first?
I'm all for bankers, or anybody else, getting rewarded for their efforts but does that reward not come after settling the debts owed to taxpayers?
The banks with the largest loans are Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds TSB. So the BoE, 100% owned by the taxpayer, is lending to banks partially owned by the taxpayer.
Yet RBS and Lloyds TSB will be paying £100k+ bonuses to certain staff. So why are they not, instead, paying off their loans first?
I'm all for bankers, or anybody else, getting rewarded for their efforts but does that reward not come after settling the debts owed to taxpayers?
Saturday 13 November 2010
Schools Funding
Today's articles in the Media give some expectation that the long-standing under-funding of Cornwall's schools, when compared with pupil rates enjoyed by many other counties, may be in sight of coming to an end. Whilst the Media is focussing on the removal of local authorities from the decision making process regarding the allocation of funding per school, the move to a new arrangement whereby the Government pays each school directly seems a good step forward.
Of course it will be necessary to ensure that the funding formula is genuinely fair, hence the reason that there will be a period of consultation, and fully addresses the range of issues including rural, inner-city, special educational needs, deprivation and disabled pupils to name a few.
Of course it will be necessary to ensure that the funding formula is genuinely fair, hence the reason that there will be a period of consultation, and fully addresses the range of issues including rural, inner-city, special educational needs, deprivation and disabled pupils to name a few.
Tuesday 9 November 2010
Voice of the Child
Excellent morning yesterday listening to and watching presentations from seven groups - Youth Parliament, Germoe School, Young Carers, Penponds School, Illogan School, Volunteer Cornwall and Landrake Young Ladies.
Each of the presentations was well made demonstrating that youngesters are aware of issues, engaged with issues and able to put forward solutions.
The event was part of a programme of increasing (and boy does it need increasing) the attention given to seeking and understanding children's as part of the decision making process for those issues which effect them (and that is most issues) and ensuring that they understand the rationale for decisions when they are taken.
Each of the presentations was well made demonstrating that youngesters are aware of issues, engaged with issues and able to put forward solutions.
The event was part of a programme of increasing (and boy does it need increasing) the attention given to seeking and understanding children's as part of the decision making process for those issues which effect them (and that is most issues) and ensuring that they understand the rationale for decisions when they are taken.
Sunday 17 October 2010
Public Consultation
The 'Hard Choices' public consultation evening meetings in Penzance, Saltash, St Austell and Bude last week were, given the lack of large numbers of attendees due to the short notice, a start in a process that should be continued; namely Cornwall Councillors holding meetings across the Duchy to seek the views of the local population. This activity should not cut across the existing local activities of Cornwall Councillors but rather provide an opportunity for groups of Councillors, against the background of issues which to greater or lesser extent effect the entire Duchy, to seek the views of more representative samples of the population.
One noticeable absence from the meetings was people under the age of 40 (my apology if you were there and are under 40!). I don't recall any children or young people attending. The absence of children and young people, or rather more likely finding better ways to engage with them, will be addressed at meetings I'm attending over the next few days organised by Cornwall Council and voluntary partners. These meetings will be centred on and led by children and young people as part of the programme to achieve in Cornwall real meaning for the 'giving a voice to the child' initiative.
One noticeable absence from the meetings was people under the age of 40 (my apology if you were there and are under 40!). I don't recall any children or young people attending. The absence of children and young people, or rather more likely finding better ways to engage with them, will be addressed at meetings I'm attending over the next few days organised by Cornwall Council and voluntary partners. These meetings will be centred on and led by children and young people as part of the programme to achieve in Cornwall real meaning for the 'giving a voice to the child' initiative.
Saturday 9 October 2010
Cuts are OK but.....
Given the amount of Media space devoted to the wails of those on 40% income tax who will lose child benefit you could be forgiven for believing that everyone is in favour of Government spending reductions unless the cuts directly effect them. Maybe the wails of anguish simply reflect the ability of some of the more articulate members of society to get their voices heard.
Perhaps a simple definition of spending reductions is that they must and will hurt; the challenge being to minimise the pain and to shelter the more vunerable members of society from the effects of the cuts. There is only so much that can be achieved by efficiency savings, and even then it probably means some people losing their jobs, before the effects touch others. There seems a world of difference between giving up something which you can live without when compared with keeping in place services which, literally, are a matter of life and death. So 'ring-fencing' the NHS from having to introduce front line service cuts, whilst expecting efficiency gains, is a logical way forward.
I'm not looking forward to 20% VAT or having to wait until I'm 66 to receive a State pension. However I'm prepared to accept that my modest financial loss is for the overall good. My loss is immaterial alongside those who will lose their jobs and have to find new employment. I've been there and done that and, at the time, it is a traumatic experience.
Perhaps a simple definition of spending reductions is that they must and will hurt; the challenge being to minimise the pain and to shelter the more vunerable members of society from the effects of the cuts. There is only so much that can be achieved by efficiency savings, and even then it probably means some people losing their jobs, before the effects touch others. There seems a world of difference between giving up something which you can live without when compared with keeping in place services which, literally, are a matter of life and death. So 'ring-fencing' the NHS from having to introduce front line service cuts, whilst expecting efficiency gains, is a logical way forward.
I'm not looking forward to 20% VAT or having to wait until I'm 66 to receive a State pension. However I'm prepared to accept that my modest financial loss is for the overall good. My loss is immaterial alongside those who will lose their jobs and have to find new employment. I've been there and done that and, at the time, it is a traumatic experience.
Sunday 3 October 2010
Cornwall's Budget: Everyone's Responsibility
Just 17 days to go now before the Coalition Government's spending plans are made public. Everyone can have their say as to where they think the changes in Cornwall should be made: http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=25332
There are plans afoot - congratulations to Cllr. John Keeling, in his role as chair of the Corporate Resources Scrutiny Committee, for taking the lead here - for councillors to attend evening public meetings across Cornwall to directly hear the views of the public. I understand meetings are being arranged for the North, South, East and West of the Duchy.
It has to be emphasised that the Cornwall Council's budget proposals are exactly that; proposals which are first subject to scrutiny by the scrutiny committees (consisting of 72 councillors, i.e. well over 50% of all Cornwall councillors) and then to consideration and debate by the full Council. The scrutiny process will test the budget proposals for fairness, appropriateness and value for money. If councillors, by majority by scrutiny committee, consider that the proposals can be improved then their recommendations will inform both the Cabinet and the full Council when it considers the budget proposals.
The budget only moves forward into effect should over 50% of the councillors who attend the full Council meeting positively vote for it.
There are plans afoot - congratulations to Cllr. John Keeling, in his role as chair of the Corporate Resources Scrutiny Committee, for taking the lead here - for councillors to attend evening public meetings across Cornwall to directly hear the views of the public. I understand meetings are being arranged for the North, South, East and West of the Duchy.
It has to be emphasised that the Cornwall Council's budget proposals are exactly that; proposals which are first subject to scrutiny by the scrutiny committees (consisting of 72 councillors, i.e. well over 50% of all Cornwall councillors) and then to consideration and debate by the full Council. The scrutiny process will test the budget proposals for fairness, appropriateness and value for money. If councillors, by majority by scrutiny committee, consider that the proposals can be improved then their recommendations will inform both the Cabinet and the full Council when it considers the budget proposals.
The budget only moves forward into effect should over 50% of the councillors who attend the full Council meeting positively vote for it.
Friday 1 October 2010
Personal Debt
If personal debt was regarded as a disease such as typhoid then the scale of it in Cornwall would justify 'moving heaven and earth' to eradicate it; this was the gist of a presentation given yesterday by Cornwall's Citizens Advice Bureau to six Cornwall councillors.
The number of families and individuals with unmanageable debts should be of major concern to policy makers. There is likely to be very appreciable increase in the numbers as the effects of the 'age of asterity' gather pace.
What can be done? A three point programme is the way forward:
1. Get the issue given the priority it demands by policymakers.
2. Educate those at risk of their rights.
3. Promote responsible borrowings.
The CAB presentation is part of an on-going evidence gathering activity about poverty in Cornwall.
The implications of excessive personal debts are profound and range across family stability, child poverty, mental health and community viability, to name just a few.
The number of families and individuals with unmanageable debts should be of major concern to policy makers. There is likely to be very appreciable increase in the numbers as the effects of the 'age of asterity' gather pace.
What can be done? A three point programme is the way forward:
1. Get the issue given the priority it demands by policymakers.
2. Educate those at risk of their rights.
3. Promote responsible borrowings.
The CAB presentation is part of an on-going evidence gathering activity about poverty in Cornwall.
The implications of excessive personal debts are profound and range across family stability, child poverty, mental health and community viability, to name just a few.
Thursday 23 September 2010
Cornwall Council: Services
Today's Cornwall Council Children, Education & Families ("CEF") Overview & Scrutiny Committee had a full agenda so it's thanks to the officers and councillors that we got through it so well without stinting on the discussions.
There is understandable concern that whilst the grant reductions to date, in the CEF arena, have been absorbed without too much difficulty - although it would be wrong to assume that there has not been a reduction in services or some lost jobs - the future range and number of cuts will not be known until after the Government's autumn spending review which takes place on 20 October.
As the Cornwall Council Cabinet develop their proposals to manage the funding cuts, whilst continuing on the overall journey of achieving value for money, there is a critical role for the Scrutiny Committees, whose memberships is over 50% of the councillors, to understand, challenge and, where appropriate, recommend alternative options in the implementation of the funding reductions. A strong scrutiny function can then inform the deliberations of the Full Council when it meets in November to decide on the emergency budget.
There is understandable concern that whilst the grant reductions to date, in the CEF arena, have been absorbed without too much difficulty - although it would be wrong to assume that there has not been a reduction in services or some lost jobs - the future range and number of cuts will not be known until after the Government's autumn spending review which takes place on 20 October.
As the Cornwall Council Cabinet develop their proposals to manage the funding cuts, whilst continuing on the overall journey of achieving value for money, there is a critical role for the Scrutiny Committees, whose memberships is over 50% of the councillors, to understand, challenge and, where appropriate, recommend alternative options in the implementation of the funding reductions. A strong scrutiny function can then inform the deliberations of the Full Council when it meets in November to decide on the emergency budget.
Thursday 16 September 2010
Cornwall Council: Good Progress
It was good to hear at yesterday's Cornwall Council Cabinet meeting of the very real progress being made in moving Cornwall Council towards being a top class council. This will benefit everyone in Cornwall, as quality services are delivered at lowest possible cost.
The details are that Cornwall Council has achieved the second best performance standards of all those councils who moved to unitary status in 2009. There was already clear evidence that performance standards across the Council have been improving however it is particularly gratifying to have independent confirmation of the progress made since the Conservatives, working alongside the Independents, took control of Cornwall Council in 2009.
The independent report was prepared by PricewaterhouseCoopers who provide a benchmarking service to a number of Councils to allow performance to be compared.
This positive performance result sits alongside continued effective management of the Cornwall Council budget which is on track to deliver well over £50m of savings in the current financial year. These savings comprise the initial Cornwall Council target of £40m savings in 2010/2011 (which were needed to keep the council tax increase low) plus the subsequent additional savings required from the reduction in Government grants. Whilst the latest forecast is of a small overspend this primarily arises from the effect of the Government grants reduction and there is every expectation that the budget will be back in line before the financial year comes to a close.
Further savings arising from the rationalisation of Cornwall Council’s office property will be achieved by the adoption of modern working practices. This will reduce the number of offices which the Council needs to occupy. There will be some short-term costs, especially regarding refurbishments of offices in Dolceath Avenue, Camborne, and New County Hall, Truro to allow more staff to be based in these locations however overall the changes will achieve significant long-term savings.
Much remains to be done. The current performance improvements, whilst welcome, are not any reason to reduce the efforts to make further substantial improvements.
The details are that Cornwall Council has achieved the second best performance standards of all those councils who moved to unitary status in 2009. There was already clear evidence that performance standards across the Council have been improving however it is particularly gratifying to have independent confirmation of the progress made since the Conservatives, working alongside the Independents, took control of Cornwall Council in 2009.
The independent report was prepared by PricewaterhouseCoopers who provide a benchmarking service to a number of Councils to allow performance to be compared.
This positive performance result sits alongside continued effective management of the Cornwall Council budget which is on track to deliver well over £50m of savings in the current financial year. These savings comprise the initial Cornwall Council target of £40m savings in 2010/2011 (which were needed to keep the council tax increase low) plus the subsequent additional savings required from the reduction in Government grants. Whilst the latest forecast is of a small overspend this primarily arises from the effect of the Government grants reduction and there is every expectation that the budget will be back in line before the financial year comes to a close.
Further savings arising from the rationalisation of Cornwall Council’s office property will be achieved by the adoption of modern working practices. This will reduce the number of offices which the Council needs to occupy. There will be some short-term costs, especially regarding refurbishments of offices in Dolceath Avenue, Camborne, and New County Hall, Truro to allow more staff to be based in these locations however overall the changes will achieve significant long-term savings.
Much remains to be done. The current performance improvements, whilst welcome, are not any reason to reduce the efforts to make further substantial improvements.
Sunday 29 August 2010
Penryn Fair Day
My, sadly lacking, knowledge of Cornish history was improved by listening to the Grand Bard's presentation about the Prayer Book Rebellion of 1549 at the prelude to Penryn Fair Day.
Congratulations to the organising committee for Saturday's excellent day.
A note for your diary: the Gorsedd comes to Penryn in 2013.
Prayer Book Rebellion:
www.cornwallgb.com/cornwall_england_howard.html www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1192787
Gorsedd:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gorsedd gorsethkernow.org.uk/english/about.htm
Congratulations to the organising committee for Saturday's excellent day.
A note for your diary: the Gorsedd comes to Penryn in 2013.
Prayer Book Rebellion:
www.cornwallgb.com/cornwall_england_howard.html www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1192787
Gorsedd:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gorsedd gorsethkernow.org.uk/english/about.htm
School: Term Times
My initial research has established the following.
The school year, of three terms, was established in 1875 and with just a few minor changes has broadly remained unaltered since then. It's initial design included recognition that many children would be involved in harvesting crops.
The current arrangements act to the educational disadvantage of children, particular those from poorer families, as reading and numeracy skills fall during long periods whilst away from school, such as the current six weeks summer holiday.
There are various proposals to both shorthen the summer holiday and increase the time that children spend at school. One that I have come across proposes a five term year with each term of about nine weeks. This would increase the total time at school from the present 42 weeks to nearer 45 weeks per year. The summer holiday would reduce to 3 weeks.
This is only the start of my enquiries as there are many other factors to be addressed including:
1. the extent of the educational disadvantage created by the current structure,
2. how any additional schoolling would be funded,
3. the opportunity for parents and carers to take children out of school, during term time, for holidays.
The school year, of three terms, was established in 1875 and with just a few minor changes has broadly remained unaltered since then. It's initial design included recognition that many children would be involved in harvesting crops.
The current arrangements act to the educational disadvantage of children, particular those from poorer families, as reading and numeracy skills fall during long periods whilst away from school, such as the current six weeks summer holiday.
There are various proposals to both shorthen the summer holiday and increase the time that children spend at school. One that I have come across proposes a five term year with each term of about nine weeks. This would increase the total time at school from the present 42 weeks to nearer 45 weeks per year. The summer holiday would reduce to 3 weeks.
This is only the start of my enquiries as there are many other factors to be addressed including:
1. the extent of the educational disadvantage created by the current structure,
2. how any additional schoolling would be funded,
3. the opportunity for parents and carers to take children out of school, during term time, for holidays.
Friday 27 August 2010
Poverty
I'm very pleased that Cornwall Council's Children, Education and Families Scrutiny Committee has decided to carry out an in-depth review of deprivation and children's poverty. Cornwall and its people suffer greatly from poverty. That is not just financial poverty resulting from low wages (in inself a reflection of an inbalance betweeen low and high skilled jobs) but also, more importantly, poverty of aspiration. That lack of aspiration is clearly not universal. However the positive areas of progress do not mask the continuing real need for major improvements.
Some individuals will find this lack of aspiration difficult to accept. Some may not realise what they can achieve. Some may choose to deny it. However the evidence indicates that part of Cornwall's progress, towards achieving acceptable living standards and well being for all of its population, does require major and effective changes to be pout in place.
The Coalition Government has, quite rightly, maintained the previous Government's target of eradicating children's poverty by 2020. Ten years seems like a long time. It is not in the context of what needs to be done particularly as it should be done sooner rather than later.
The councillors involved in this review will take evidence from a variety of sources including some organisations and individuals deeply involved in the subject. However anyone who has any thoughts, ideas or suggestions on this topic is invited to contact me; 01872 865407 or chridgers@cornwall.gov.gov.uk
Some individuals will find this lack of aspiration difficult to accept. Some may not realise what they can achieve. Some may choose to deny it. However the evidence indicates that part of Cornwall's progress, towards achieving acceptable living standards and well being for all of its population, does require major and effective changes to be pout in place.
The Coalition Government has, quite rightly, maintained the previous Government's target of eradicating children's poverty by 2020. Ten years seems like a long time. It is not in the context of what needs to be done particularly as it should be done sooner rather than later.
The councillors involved in this review will take evidence from a variety of sources including some organisations and individuals deeply involved in the subject. However anyone who has any thoughts, ideas or suggestions on this topic is invited to contact me; 01872 865407 or chridgers@cornwall.gov.gov.uk
Monday 23 August 2010
Spending Cuts
The coming weeks, leading up to and just after the Coalition Government's Spending Review, due on 22 October will be demanding on councillors as they seek to influence the Cornwall Council Cabinet's views on where the spending cuts should fall. Whilst the Cabinet will develop proposals the approval of or change to the Cabinet's proposals are in the hands of all councillors who will vote on the proposed budget.
Of course until the Coalition Government publish their spending details it can only be a matter of estimation and informed opinion as to the size of cuts which will be required in Cornwall.
Within this activity the role of the four scrutiny committees in Cornwall Council, to review the details of the proposed budget, will be pivotal.
Whilst members of the public have had opportunity to influence Goverment policy - http://spendingchallenge.hm-treasury.gov.uk/ - there is a further, and local, set of opportunities to make your views known by asking questions of the scrutiny committees.
Of course until the Coalition Government publish their spending details it can only be a matter of estimation and informed opinion as to the size of cuts which will be required in Cornwall.
Within this activity the role of the four scrutiny committees in Cornwall Council, to review the details of the proposed budget, will be pivotal.
Whilst members of the public have had opportunity to influence Goverment policy - http://spendingchallenge.hm-treasury.gov.uk/ - there is a further, and local, set of opportunities to make your views known by asking questions of the scrutiny committees.
Sunday 22 August 2010
Lib Dem Defection
Forget about Charles Kennedy.
The obvious big fish, to wake up and smell the coffee, is Nick Clegg.
The obvious big fish, to wake up and smell the coffee, is Nick Clegg.
Saturday 21 August 2010
Cornish Holidays
Have just experienced a few days of 'holidaying at home' and attempting to see Cornwall through the eyes of tourists. The following are my personal highlights:
Walking from St Just to Sennen Cove along the coastal path; passed only five people
Gwennap Pit (and the very knowledgeable volunteer guide)
Portreath pasty
Walking from St Just to Sennen Cove along the coastal path; passed only five people
Gwennap Pit (and the very knowledgeable volunteer guide)
Portreath pasty
Tuesday 20 July 2010
Cornwall Council: Personal Sites
Recognising the importance of having a wide a range of communication opportunities, Cornwall Council is now creating personal sites for councillors from which they will have the opportunity to post relevant, non-politically biased, comments and news.
Whilst it will take time for those councillors who wish to use this facility to set-up their pages and post comments, those comments will likely become a further rich source of information for those interested in Cornwall Council and what it does. With the challenges created by the pressure on budgets, those comments are likely to supplement the existing official channels of communication already used by the Council.
http://democracy.cornwall.gov.uk/mgMiniSite.aspx?UID=2157&EID=0&PID=18&PG=1
Whilst it will take time for those councillors who wish to use this facility to set-up their pages and post comments, those comments will likely become a further rich source of information for those interested in Cornwall Council and what it does. With the challenges created by the pressure on budgets, those comments are likely to supplement the existing official channels of communication already used by the Council.
http://democracy.cornwall.gov.uk/mgMiniSite.aspx?UID=2157&EID=0&PID=18&PG=1
Wednesday 14 July 2010
Meet Me!
Next surgeries are on 24 July at:
Mabe Village Hall (opp. the village shop): 10:00 - 11:30
Ponsanooth Methodist Church Annex (side door on right hand side of building as you face the church): 12:00 - 13:30
Perranarworthal Village Memorial Hall (South room): 14:30 - 16:00
No appointment necessary.
Happy to discuss any subject and to work with you to seek to find a solution.
Mabe Village Hall (opp. the village shop): 10:00 - 11:30
Ponsanooth Methodist Church Annex (side door on right hand side of building as you face the church): 12:00 - 13:30
Perranarworthal Village Memorial Hall (South room): 14:30 - 16:00
No appointment necessary.
Happy to discuss any subject and to work with you to seek to find a solution.
Sunday 27 June 2010
Liberal Democrats : Disunited?
Am I the only one struggling to understand what is going on in the Liberal Democrats universe?
They seemed to be still surprised to be in national government coalition and, as such, seemingly have adopted Conservative policies which, prior to the Election, they fought tooth and nail against. Remember all the pre-Election fuss they made about not supporting an increase in VAT and that savings had to be put off? Yes, there are elements of LibDem policy in the coalition agreement and whilst generally welcome tend not to be influencing the main direction on which the Conservatives fought the Election campaign.
Now we have various LibDem members beginning to get cold feet over what they have got themselves into and showing early signs of wanting to abandon ship even before we reach stormy waters as the necessary changes in government expenditure begin to take effect.
Read report today that LibDem support has fallen by half since the General Election so, in time honoured fashion given the history of UK coalitions, Nick Clegg appears at real risk of, at least for a generation, casting his Party, at least nationally if not locally, back into the politicial wilderness.
They seemed to be still surprised to be in national government coalition and, as such, seemingly have adopted Conservative policies which, prior to the Election, they fought tooth and nail against. Remember all the pre-Election fuss they made about not supporting an increase in VAT and that savings had to be put off? Yes, there are elements of LibDem policy in the coalition agreement and whilst generally welcome tend not to be influencing the main direction on which the Conservatives fought the Election campaign.
Now we have various LibDem members beginning to get cold feet over what they have got themselves into and showing early signs of wanting to abandon ship even before we reach stormy waters as the necessary changes in government expenditure begin to take effect.
Read report today that LibDem support has fallen by half since the General Election so, in time honoured fashion given the history of UK coalitions, Nick Clegg appears at real risk of, at least for a generation, casting his Party, at least nationally if not locally, back into the politicial wilderness.
Community Engagement
Watched the Armed Forces Parade in Truro yesterday and visited the displays on Lemon Quay. Later went to the Tremough Campus Community Day and, apart from being impressed by the wide range of activities on offer for visitors, was disappointed that there were only three of us at the informative lecture, 'From Climate to Landscape: Imagining the Future' deliveried by Professor Catherine Leyshon.
The common theme, for me, across these two events was the relative lack of engagement either seemed to achieve amongst the vast majority of the population. OK, so the weather was excellent so there was a big draw to the coast. On the other hand both events had great appeal (the first being an opportunity to acknowledge the commitment of our Forces; irrespective of whether or not you feel we should be in Afghanistan) and the second an opportunity to find out more about what goes on at the Combined Universities.
The Parade followed on from a service in Truro Cathredral. Once again raises the question as to why the Anglican Church is involved in such a major way in something which is supposedly about all in society and not just those who choose to believe in Christ.
I watched the Parade from Boscawen Street and it was clear that the audience was measured in hundreds rather than thousands.
At Tremough there were few visitors on site in the afternoon - I'm told there were rather more there in the morning - however the feeling was of a relatively poorly attended event. Was it promoted sufficiently locally? A few days ago a number of Cornwall councillors from the Falmouth & Penryn area met with the University College Falmouth Rector and senior staff. We agreed to work towards building stronger links between the local community and Tremough; perhaps for subsequent Campus Community Days we need to work jointly to encourage greater attendence at what is, after all, a Cornish success story which will likely play an important role in Cornwall's future.
The common theme, for me, across these two events was the relative lack of engagement either seemed to achieve amongst the vast majority of the population. OK, so the weather was excellent so there was a big draw to the coast. On the other hand both events had great appeal (the first being an opportunity to acknowledge the commitment of our Forces; irrespective of whether or not you feel we should be in Afghanistan) and the second an opportunity to find out more about what goes on at the Combined Universities.
The Parade followed on from a service in Truro Cathredral. Once again raises the question as to why the Anglican Church is involved in such a major way in something which is supposedly about all in society and not just those who choose to believe in Christ.
I watched the Parade from Boscawen Street and it was clear that the audience was measured in hundreds rather than thousands.
At Tremough there were few visitors on site in the afternoon - I'm told there were rather more there in the morning - however the feeling was of a relatively poorly attended event. Was it promoted sufficiently locally? A few days ago a number of Cornwall councillors from the Falmouth & Penryn area met with the University College Falmouth Rector and senior staff. We agreed to work towards building stronger links between the local community and Tremough; perhaps for subsequent Campus Community Days we need to work jointly to encourage greater attendence at what is, after all, a Cornish success story which will likely play an important role in Cornwall's future.
Tuesday 8 June 2010
Just Another Day
Attended Inclusion Cornwall's www.cornwallstrategicpartnership.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=10643 AGM this morning and, yet again in my day-to-day activities, met a group of people who individually and collectively are working hard towards improving the lot of various communities and individuals in Cornwall. A good networking session followed with a number of new contacts made. Amongst many issues, learnt that there are seven different faith groups in Cornwall. (Note to self: How well are their views represented?).
After a quick visit to County Hall (collect the mail; print out various papers; check if any Portfolio Holders were in residence for a 'what's happening?' chat) then returned home to deal with the post, phone messages and emails. Then a photography session with the Parish Council for a possible article in the West Briton. Now a break before going out later to a (different) Parish Council meeting.
Hanging over all I do at the moment is the prospect that there are very major changes coming in as the Government's spending review gathers pace. It's very easy to become depressed by the prospects however it may be that the coming funding reductions are what are required to encourage me, and perhaps others, to focus solely on what is important rather than what is urgent.
After a quick visit to County Hall (collect the mail; print out various papers; check if any Portfolio Holders were in residence for a 'what's happening?' chat) then returned home to deal with the post, phone messages and emails. Then a photography session with the Parish Council for a possible article in the West Briton. Now a break before going out later to a (different) Parish Council meeting.
Hanging over all I do at the moment is the prospect that there are very major changes coming in as the Government's spending review gathers pace. It's very easy to become depressed by the prospects however it may be that the coming funding reductions are what are required to encourage me, and perhaps others, to focus solely on what is important rather than what is urgent.
Monday 31 May 2010
Experienced Politicans
In today's Times it is suggested that Danny Alexander is not sufficiently experienced to hold the role of Treasury Chief Secretary. That fails to recognise that being experienced is not the key attribute of a politician; being elected is. It also fails to recognise that in a democracy we elect the government and not the civil servants who provide the government with its information and implementation of the government's requirements.
The UK and Cornwall gets the politicians it wants. It does not generally select them on their ability to do a specific government job other than to represent them whether at the local or national level.
If one looks at the Cornwall Councillors it is self-evident that whilst they are not fully representative of the electorate (too few younger members; too many males; too many middle class) they bring a range of experiences and abilities to bear on the issues facing Cornwall. To a large extent, many politicians grow into the roles that they undertake.
The UK and Cornwall gets the politicians it wants. It does not generally select them on their ability to do a specific government job other than to represent them whether at the local or national level.
If one looks at the Cornwall Councillors it is self-evident that whilst they are not fully representative of the electorate (too few younger members; too many males; too many middle class) they bring a range of experiences and abilities to bear on the issues facing Cornwall. To a large extent, many politicians grow into the roles that they undertake.
Sunday 30 May 2010
A new Beginning?
So, the results so far are not looking too good:
One resignation due to a clear breach of Commons rules on expenses,
No news yet on Cornwall's bids for building schools for the future and affordable housing,
18 millionaires in the Cabinet ( who represents the rest of us?),
Evevations to the House of Lords ( when will it be solely electable?) of at least two millionaires who have made significant donations to the Conservative Party,
Closing down the Childrens Trust Funds (maybe a good idea but why, as your first action, hit those who don't vote?),
Suggestion that those who are clever or rich enought to dodge income tax can continue to shield their 'capital gains' at less than the appropriate levels of income tax,
Obvious discontent, with some aspects of Government policy, in both Conservative and Liberal Democrat ranks.
If this was a new beginning then currently feeling, at best, less than encouraged by what is being deliveried.
Much now depends on the 22 June budget.
Chris.
One resignation due to a clear breach of Commons rules on expenses,
No news yet on Cornwall's bids for building schools for the future and affordable housing,
18 millionaires in the Cabinet ( who represents the rest of us?),
Evevations to the House of Lords ( when will it be solely electable?) of at least two millionaires who have made significant donations to the Conservative Party,
Closing down the Childrens Trust Funds (maybe a good idea but why, as your first action, hit those who don't vote?),
Suggestion that those who are clever or rich enought to dodge income tax can continue to shield their 'capital gains' at less than the appropriate levels of income tax,
Obvious discontent, with some aspects of Government policy, in both Conservative and Liberal Democrat ranks.
If this was a new beginning then currently feeling, at best, less than encouraged by what is being deliveried.
Much now depends on the 22 June budget.
Chris.
Friday 14 May 2010
A New Order?
The election is now over and I've got used to not automatically wanting to stick a leaflet through any letterbox I see. It was great to find that as the campaign went on the initial suspicion of politicans (expenses, "in it for themselves", can't be trusted, etc.) gave way to the realisation that maybe it was the most important General Election for a generation.
Given the apparent conspiracy of all parties not to talk, in detail, about their plans to reduce the deficit it was encouraging that this was one of the major themes on the doorstep. So, from that perspective, there is still a gulf between the electorate, many of whom want to hear the truth and its consequences, and politicians who seemingly put getting elected over and above addressing, pre-election, some of the big topics.
I can't help but feel that what has emerged post-election, with a Conservative/Liberal Democrat coalition, is an indication of the depth of the crisis that the UK is in.
Time will tell whether it is truly a shift in the political environment or just a holiday romance.
The day job as a Cornwall Councillor continued throughout the campaign. Sadly some Councillors (again across the board; not a political party comment) seemed to spend time on the campaign trial rather than giving priority to their Council duties. With the internet and email it was fairly easy to move some Council work to evenings/weekends (or rather doing even more in those times) without distracting from the role to which I was elected. Gripe over.
Yesterday re-elected to the chair of the Children, Education & Families Overview & Scrutiny Committee. The first year was successful (I would say that) however it was good to see the Committee yesterday becoming even more assertive in holding the Cabinet to account; a number of recommendations are going to them. Next week sees the Committee's report on children's safeguarding and looked after children going to Cabinet.
OK, so I'm a Conservative scrutinising a Conservative-led Council; I, like all Councillors involved in scrutiny, leave my Party alligence at the door when on scrutiny duties. (The Cornwall Council Constitution would not allow Scrutiny Committees to be chaired by a member of the Party which represented more than 50% of the Councillors).
The coming year will see more policy development undertaken by Scrutiny Committees....watch this space.
Given the apparent conspiracy of all parties not to talk, in detail, about their plans to reduce the deficit it was encouraging that this was one of the major themes on the doorstep. So, from that perspective, there is still a gulf between the electorate, many of whom want to hear the truth and its consequences, and politicians who seemingly put getting elected over and above addressing, pre-election, some of the big topics.
I can't help but feel that what has emerged post-election, with a Conservative/Liberal Democrat coalition, is an indication of the depth of the crisis that the UK is in.
Time will tell whether it is truly a shift in the political environment or just a holiday romance.
The day job as a Cornwall Councillor continued throughout the campaign. Sadly some Councillors (again across the board; not a political party comment) seemed to spend time on the campaign trial rather than giving priority to their Council duties. With the internet and email it was fairly easy to move some Council work to evenings/weekends (or rather doing even more in those times) without distracting from the role to which I was elected. Gripe over.
Yesterday re-elected to the chair of the Children, Education & Families Overview & Scrutiny Committee. The first year was successful (I would say that) however it was good to see the Committee yesterday becoming even more assertive in holding the Cabinet to account; a number of recommendations are going to them. Next week sees the Committee's report on children's safeguarding and looked after children going to Cabinet.
OK, so I'm a Conservative scrutinising a Conservative-led Council; I, like all Councillors involved in scrutiny, leave my Party alligence at the door when on scrutiny duties. (The Cornwall Council Constitution would not allow Scrutiny Committees to be chaired by a member of the Party which represented more than 50% of the Councillors).
The coming year will see more policy development undertaken by Scrutiny Committees....watch this space.
Sunday 11 April 2010
Allowances and Expenses
My allowances as a Cornwall Councillor are:
Basis Allowance: £11,976.16 per annum. This is the allowance available to every Councillor.
Chairman: Children, Education and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee: £7,086.48 per annum.
Out of the above I fund postage, stationery (Council provides letter headed paper and business cards), telephone calls when away from Council offices (landline and mobile), home broadband connection, home office space and travelling expenses for all journeys other than those which are claimable, which are about 20% of my total journeys.
All expenses claimed are, before payment, subject to itemised details checked by Council officers and further subject to potential review by the Council's internal auditors (within the internal audit annual programme there is time allocated for reviewing councillors expenses).
The amounts paid to me by month, which as and when the Council's system allows will be displayed as presented in their itemised format, were:
July: £47.00
August: 29.00
September: 44.30
October: 62.00
November: 95.50
December: 60.00
January: 78.50
February: 115.00
March: 86.00
The majority of the expenses are mileage, initially at 50p per mile reduced to 40p per mile from mid-January when Council adopted the mileage recommendation of the independent review panel. I have made a few journeys by public transport and am committed, where possible, to use it as it costs less than the car mileage rate.
Not included in the above expenses are the costs of air travel to London paid directly by the Council; once for a Pension Fund meeting with certain investment managers and once for scrutiny training in Westminister. One of the flights was to Gatwick where the Council also pre-purchased the rail travel to Victoria. The costs of parking at Newquay airport are included in the stated expenses as is the cost of rail travel from London Docklands airport for the other flight. In each case, travel was based on the lowest cost that the Council could secure.
Not included in the above is the parking permit provided by Cornwall Council. This has been used infrequently as most meetings are at Council offices, including One Stop Shops, where on-site parking is generally available or are meetings within walking distance of Council offices.
Tea/coffee/water is available at Council offices, generally free of charge, as is the occasional lunchtime meal I have had at New County Hall when on all-day business.
Finally I have joined the Council's pension scheme which for councillors is a career average arrangement based on payment of 6% of alowances and is inferior to the final salary scheme available to staff. At the time of writing this note I'm not sure as to the Council's payment to my pension.
I understand, as was the practice with Cornwall County Council, that the Council will publish in the local newspapers and on its website an annual statement of all allowances and expenses paid to each councillor.
Basis Allowance: £11,976.16 per annum. This is the allowance available to every Councillor.
Chairman: Children, Education and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee: £7,086.48 per annum.
Out of the above I fund postage, stationery (Council provides letter headed paper and business cards), telephone calls when away from Council offices (landline and mobile), home broadband connection, home office space and travelling expenses for all journeys other than those which are claimable, which are about 20% of my total journeys.
All expenses claimed are, before payment, subject to itemised details checked by Council officers and further subject to potential review by the Council's internal auditors (within the internal audit annual programme there is time allocated for reviewing councillors expenses).
The amounts paid to me by month, which as and when the Council's system allows will be displayed as presented in their itemised format, were:
July: £47.00
August: 29.00
September: 44.30
October: 62.00
November: 95.50
December: 60.00
January: 78.50
February: 115.00
March: 86.00
The majority of the expenses are mileage, initially at 50p per mile reduced to 40p per mile from mid-January when Council adopted the mileage recommendation of the independent review panel. I have made a few journeys by public transport and am committed, where possible, to use it as it costs less than the car mileage rate.
Not included in the above expenses are the costs of air travel to London paid directly by the Council; once for a Pension Fund meeting with certain investment managers and once for scrutiny training in Westminister. One of the flights was to Gatwick where the Council also pre-purchased the rail travel to Victoria. The costs of parking at Newquay airport are included in the stated expenses as is the cost of rail travel from London Docklands airport for the other flight. In each case, travel was based on the lowest cost that the Council could secure.
Not included in the above is the parking permit provided by Cornwall Council. This has been used infrequently as most meetings are at Council offices, including One Stop Shops, where on-site parking is generally available or are meetings within walking distance of Council offices.
Tea/coffee/water is available at Council offices, generally free of charge, as is the occasional lunchtime meal I have had at New County Hall when on all-day business.
Finally I have joined the Council's pension scheme which for councillors is a career average arrangement based on payment of 6% of alowances and is inferior to the final salary scheme available to staff. At the time of writing this note I'm not sure as to the Council's payment to my pension.
I understand, as was the practice with Cornwall County Council, that the Council will publish in the local newspapers and on its website an annual statement of all allowances and expenses paid to each councillor.
Friday 9 April 2010
Apathy, Anguish and Acceptance
Out deliverying leaflets today and the main message 'on the street' was "Why are we told how bad the situation really is?" Of course the second most popular message was about a lack of interest and the perception that all politicians are in it for what they can make. That spurs me to write a blog this weekend about my allowances and expenses as a councillor; thin cat rather than fat cat.
Well I regard the economic situation as very poor; of every £4 that the Government currently spends £1 is borrowed. That we be OK in the short term however (a) we have an enormous national debt already, and (b) the current Government seems hell-bent on borrowing more in the coming years, if re-elected.
It's all rather like Cornwall Council where it is not possible to make massive early savings but rather gradually move towards a new approach to financial stewardship. Go to fast and the whole system could collapse; go to quickly and we go broke.
Well I regard the economic situation as very poor; of every £4 that the Government currently spends £1 is borrowed. That we be OK in the short term however (a) we have an enormous national debt already, and (b) the current Government seems hell-bent on borrowing more in the coming years, if re-elected.
It's all rather like Cornwall Council where it is not possible to make massive early savings but rather gradually move towards a new approach to financial stewardship. Go to fast and the whole system could collapse; go to quickly and we go broke.
Monday 5 April 2010
Under Starter's Orders
Will Gordon Brown visit the Queen tomorrow? (likely)
Will each Party make a 'big' announcement to kick start their campaign to seek to grab the headlines? (probable)
Will the election be conducted, by all involved, in a considered and fact based environment? (fat chance)
Will I lose 10lbs delivering leaflets and canvassing over the next four weeks? (hopefully)
Will the UK be a different place after the election? (maybe not initially.....)
Will each Party make a 'big' announcement to kick start their campaign to seek to grab the headlines? (probable)
Will the election be conducted, by all involved, in a considered and fact based environment? (fat chance)
Will I lose 10lbs delivering leaflets and canvassing over the next four weeks? (hopefully)
Will the UK be a different place after the election? (maybe not initially.....)
Thursday 1 April 2010
COUNCILLOR ACTIVITES: MEETINGS
The first four days this week included the following meetings:
Monday: Audit Committee.
Tuesday: Political Party Group; Full Council and meeting with residents.
Wednesday: Pension Fund Committee; visit to Children's Home (some councillors, in their role of corporate parents, carry out monthly visits to every Children's Home in Cornwall) and a Parish Council meeting.
Thursday: Local Safeguarding Childen Board (attended as participating observer); meeting with Children, Schools and Families Portfolio Holder; agenda setting discussion for Scrutiny meeting.
Monday: Audit Committee.
Tuesday: Political Party Group; Full Council and meeting with residents.
Wednesday: Pension Fund Committee; visit to Children's Home (some councillors, in their role of corporate parents, carry out monthly visits to every Children's Home in Cornwall) and a Parish Council meeting.
Thursday: Local Safeguarding Childen Board (attended as participating observer); meeting with Children, Schools and Families Portfolio Holder; agenda setting discussion for Scrutiny meeting.
Wednesday 17 March 2010
A39 Crossing: 'ASDA/B&Q' Roundabout south of Mabe
Please contact me if you have any issues or comments about pedestrians crossing the A39 at this location.
Your views will assist in developing a proposition for improvements to pedestrian safety.
Thanks.
Your views will assist in developing a proposition for improvements to pedestrian safety.
Thanks.
Thursday 11 March 2010
Serious Case Reviews
Attended meeting in Penzance yesterday which received presentations on deaths of two children in Cornwall. Serious case reviews involve cases of actual or suspected abuse.
A very sobering experience which (a) reinforced my decision to stand as a Councillor to seek to prevent such tragic curcumstances, and (b) put into sharp focus the relative unimportance of many issues which Councillors deal with.
A very sobering experience which (a) reinforced my decision to stand as a Councillor to seek to prevent such tragic curcumstances, and (b) put into sharp focus the relative unimportance of many issues which Councillors deal with.
Friday 5 March 2010
Low Carbon Economy
Attended yesterday evening's 'Transition to Resilience Event' and came away convinced that there are many committed individuals willing and able to work at County and local community levels to achieve a sustainable move towards achieving a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2020.
Within this programme, Community Area Networks will have an important role. Localism rules OK!
Within this programme, Community Area Networks will have an important role. Localism rules OK!
Wednesday 3 March 2010
Letter to West Briton
Just in case it is not published.....
We, the undersigned Cornwall Councillors, share the disappointment of many Cornish residents on the absence of net savings from the move to Unitary Authority status (West Briton, 25 February).
Some of the One Cornwall projected savings have been achieved this year but most of those suggested for next year and beyond are 'pie in the sky'. Also, a number of costs had either been under-estimated or overlooked e.g. costs of putting in new systems which were fit for purpose. The word 'hoodwinked' is one that should apply to the previous administration at County Hall, not the new one.
This situation should come as no surprise. The Unitary Authority proposal was forced through by the Lib Dem County Council, supported by the local Lib Dem MPs, but was opposed by 80% of the public. Professor Michael Chisholm of Cambridge University, an acknowledged expert in this area, stated that costs would exceed savings. The case for a new Unitary Authority was fundamentally flawed. In addition, evidence from the Audit Commission indicated that financial control was weak, as was risk management. This was compounded by independent inspection reports of poor services provided by the previous administration.
For the new Conservative and Independent Administration the priority has been to rectify this situation. The results to date are very favourable. Debt has been reduced, the annual deficit curtailed, wasted expenditure such as the newspaper cut out, and financial control strengthened as shown by the latest Audit Commission report. In addition, £120 million is being committed next year to improve services while further savings of £40 million are to be made.
However, more still needs to be done to provide the best possible services at the lowest possible cost for the people of Cornwall. This will take time given the large and complex nature of the new Council. With a good corporate plan, clear vision and firm leadership it can be met, even with the financial constraints expected from future Government cutbacks. All the activities of the Council are directed towards moving it, as quickly as possible, to a position where it is well-regarded for what it does and how it does it.
Yours sincerely
Dave Biggs, Camborne West
Mike Eathorne-Gibbons, Ladock, St Clement and St Erme
Scott Mann, Wadebridge West
Chris Ridgers, Mabe
We, the undersigned Cornwall Councillors, share the disappointment of many Cornish residents on the absence of net savings from the move to Unitary Authority status (West Briton, 25 February).
Some of the One Cornwall projected savings have been achieved this year but most of those suggested for next year and beyond are 'pie in the sky'. Also, a number of costs had either been under-estimated or overlooked e.g. costs of putting in new systems which were fit for purpose. The word 'hoodwinked' is one that should apply to the previous administration at County Hall, not the new one.
This situation should come as no surprise. The Unitary Authority proposal was forced through by the Lib Dem County Council, supported by the local Lib Dem MPs, but was opposed by 80% of the public. Professor Michael Chisholm of Cambridge University, an acknowledged expert in this area, stated that costs would exceed savings. The case for a new Unitary Authority was fundamentally flawed. In addition, evidence from the Audit Commission indicated that financial control was weak, as was risk management. This was compounded by independent inspection reports of poor services provided by the previous administration.
For the new Conservative and Independent Administration the priority has been to rectify this situation. The results to date are very favourable. Debt has been reduced, the annual deficit curtailed, wasted expenditure such as the newspaper cut out, and financial control strengthened as shown by the latest Audit Commission report. In addition, £120 million is being committed next year to improve services while further savings of £40 million are to be made.
However, more still needs to be done to provide the best possible services at the lowest possible cost for the people of Cornwall. This will take time given the large and complex nature of the new Council. With a good corporate plan, clear vision and firm leadership it can be met, even with the financial constraints expected from future Government cutbacks. All the activities of the Council are directed towards moving it, as quickly as possible, to a position where it is well-regarded for what it does and how it does it.
Yours sincerely
Dave Biggs, Camborne West
Mike Eathorne-Gibbons, Ladock, St Clement and St Erme
Scott Mann, Wadebridge West
Chris Ridgers, Mabe
Wednesday 17 February 2010
Being Liberal Democrat
By common consent the Liberal Democrat's Vince Cable speaks wisely in financial matters; what a shame that his knowledge is not replicated amonst his Cornwall colleagues. They believe that:
1. a 2.9% increase in Council tax is too high even though the plans they drew up last year showed an increase of 4.0% for this year;
2. Cornwall Council should not seek to make the best use of the monies it has available and should not consider alternative ways of delivering the services required by the residents of Cornwall;
3. that there are no difficult decisions to take; probably because their solution would be based on spend, spend, spend, so driving Cornwall into far more debt.
I abstained on the Council budget vote yesterday as I believe that action to get the budget reduced has to be the priority without moving away from deliverying those services which mattter. There are costs which should be cut and which, increasingly, are a luxury in today's difficult economic times and bring no significant benefit to most residents.
1. a 2.9% increase in Council tax is too high even though the plans they drew up last year showed an increase of 4.0% for this year;
2. Cornwall Council should not seek to make the best use of the monies it has available and should not consider alternative ways of delivering the services required by the residents of Cornwall;
3. that there are no difficult decisions to take; probably because their solution would be based on spend, spend, spend, so driving Cornwall into far more debt.
I abstained on the Council budget vote yesterday as I believe that action to get the budget reduced has to be the priority without moving away from deliverying those services which mattter. There are costs which should be cut and which, increasingly, are a luxury in today's difficult economic times and bring no significant benefit to most residents.
Tuesday 19 January 2010
Cornwall Council: Councillors' Allowances
In 2009 the Liberal Democrats had unsuccessfully attempted to set all allowances for the first four years of Cornwall Council. This had been defeated on the basis that there was no certainty that an independent review might recommend reducing some allowances. At the time this had been mocked by the Liberal Democrats as merely a Conservative ploy to subsequently increase allowances.
However now that today Cornwall Councillors have accepted the independent report’s recommendation to reduce the mileage rate to 40p per mile, bringing it in line with the rate paid to Council staff, the Liberal Democrat attempt to have fixed the rate last year at 50p per mile for four years can be seen as merely an attempt to protect their income.
Monday 18 January 2010
Full Council Meeting: Tomorrow
Much 'hot air' expressed in the Media and on websites in recent days over the independent review of Cornwall Council councillor allowances. Sad that so many who have commented have missed the obvious points that (a) it is an independent review, and (b) tomorrow's meeting will decide how to take it forward.
Whilst politically important it's potential effect on Cornwall Council finances, if it was to be adopted, is much much less than any number of important projects in Cornwall.
Of far more significance to me was the agreement today that those leading the seperate Adult and Children's scrutiny committeess would work closely together on children's health issues - drugs, alcohol, tobacco to name but three items harming some of our youngsters - including presenting a united approach to organisations, such as the PCT, outside the Council. In ten years time no one will care about the allowances paid to councillors in 2010/11 however they will know, through illness and early deaths, if we don't significantly improve the healthy lifestyles of Cornish children and young adults.
Whilst politically important it's potential effect on Cornwall Council finances, if it was to be adopted, is much much less than any number of important projects in Cornwall.
Of far more significance to me was the agreement today that those leading the seperate Adult and Children's scrutiny committeess would work closely together on children's health issues - drugs, alcohol, tobacco to name but three items harming some of our youngsters - including presenting a united approach to organisations, such as the PCT, outside the Council. In ten years time no one will care about the allowances paid to councillors in 2010/11 however they will know, through illness and early deaths, if we don't significantly improve the healthy lifestyles of Cornish children and young adults.
Sunday 17 January 2010
Expenses scandal?
Is it true that the leader of the Liberal Democrats has an office in New County Hall? Is it true that the leader of Mebyon Kernow is not extended the same privilege by officers of Cornwall Council?
Is it true that some Liberal Democrats circumvent Cornwall Council's travel expenses rule by turning up for meetings, ask a single question, and then sit for the remainder of the meeting doing personal emails and not taking part in the meeting for which they are paid expenses to attend?
What this space for answers!
Is it true that some Liberal Democrats circumvent Cornwall Council's travel expenses rule by turning up for meetings, ask a single question, and then sit for the remainder of the meeting doing personal emails and not taking part in the meeting for which they are paid expenses to attend?
What this space for answers!
Monday 11 January 2010
Councillors' Allowances
Have just seen the Cornwall Council Press Release which records the recommendation of the Independent Remuneration Panel that the basis allowance increases from £11,976 to £14,600.
As far as I'm concerned any increase in the current four year term has to be warranted.
Cornwall County Council scored poorly on a number of measures; whilst I was not part of the problem - please look to the Liberal Democrats for that! - I would prefer to be seen to earn any increase and that can only be demonstrated by significicantly improving the performance - a process which will likely take some year.
A 22.9% increase does not sit easily with most residents who if in employment will be lucky to see any increase this year.
Those residents who are retired will see their state pensions increase by 2.5%
Some residents have to live on benefits and can only dream of big increases.
As far as I'm concerned any increase in the current four year term has to be warranted.
Cornwall County Council scored poorly on a number of measures; whilst I was not part of the problem - please look to the Liberal Democrats for that! - I would prefer to be seen to earn any increase and that can only be demonstrated by significicantly improving the performance - a process which will likely take some year.
A 22.9% increase does not sit easily with most residents who if in employment will be lucky to see any increase this year.
Those residents who are retired will see their state pensions increase by 2.5%
Some residents have to live on benefits and can only dream of big increases.
Saturday 9 January 2010
Snow, ice and public transport
Praise where praise is due. The Cornwall Council teams out keeping the main roads have, given the weather conditions, done a good job. With the A & B roads now passable it was great to see a gritter lorry in Perranwell Station this morning tackling a number of the more minor roads - and before anyone asks I had not requested favourable local treatment.
Took the car out this morning, first time we have ventured onto the roads since 2 January, and at ASDA's in Penryn it felt as if Sue and I were not the only ones buying in expectation of not being able to get to a supermarket again for 10 days.
Had various Council commitments in Truro this week and travelled to all of them on the Maritime Line. Having previously made use of the train and bus I came to the conclusion that I should make even greater use of them in 2010. That raises two thoughts: (1) Increasing the availability of public transport across Cornwall - being halfway between Falmouth and Truro does mean that Perranwell Station is better served by public transport than many rural locations, and (2) Contributing to the recently announced national review of competition within bus services - the cost of a return ticket from PS to either Truro or Falmouth is high enough to deter car users and is a barrier for those on tight budgers.
Took the car out this morning, first time we have ventured onto the roads since 2 January, and at ASDA's in Penryn it felt as if Sue and I were not the only ones buying in expectation of not being able to get to a supermarket again for 10 days.
Had various Council commitments in Truro this week and travelled to all of them on the Maritime Line. Having previously made use of the train and bus I came to the conclusion that I should make even greater use of them in 2010. That raises two thoughts: (1) Increasing the availability of public transport across Cornwall - being halfway between Falmouth and Truro does mean that Perranwell Station is better served by public transport than many rural locations, and (2) Contributing to the recently announced national review of competition within bus services - the cost of a return ticket from PS to either Truro or Falmouth is high enough to deter car users and is a barrier for those on tight budgers.
Tuesday 5 January 2010
Silly Politicians
Here we are with, probably, 5 months to go before a General Election and already numerous politicians, sadly many local to Cornwall, are making fools of themselves. Don't they realise that the public is (a) pretty uninterested in politics, (b) want actions, and (c) don't want to be treated like idiots.
Is it possible to have sensible debate about the major issues, whether of local or national importance? I know that we each have different views however that does not prevent us conducting discussions in a sensible mature manner.
Is it possible to have sensible debate about the major issues, whether of local or national importance? I know that we each have different views however that does not prevent us conducting discussions in a sensible mature manner.
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