The decision by the Tory-led North Yorkshire County Council to increase charges by 10% for those who pay for Community Services has been slammed by Liberal Democrats at County Hall.

County Councillor Bill Hoult, Leader of the Liberal Democrats at County Hall, says:

“The decision by the Tories to increase charges by four times the rate of inflation is just unacceptable, particularly following the 2.94% Council Tax rise.”

The increases cover meals, transport, day care and laundry services as well as personal care.

Cllr Hoult adds:

“Like the extra snow tax on the rates these increases pay scant regard to the fact that many of the frail and elderly people using the services are on fixed incomes. Many will be hard pressed to find the extra money needed in these difficult times.”

Liberal Democrats at North Yorkshire County Council today attacked the Government for not taking the threat of swine flu seriously enough.

At today’s meeting of the Council, 19 reports were included on the agenda, not one of which mentioned swine flu. However, Lib Dem Councillor John Marshall (Harrogate Central) raised the issue with the Conservative Leader of the Council.

Speaking afterwards, Cllr Marshall said:

“I find it incredible, in a rural county like North Yorkshire, that if I had not raised the matter, it would not have been discussed at all.”

“We have heard nothing from the Government about the potential effect of the pandemic on our county and region.”

“Those most at risk from swine flu are the younger generations. The County Council employs a lot of young people and runs a lot of schools. We need to know what will happen in the event of a major outbreak here. Will our schools have to close? Will Council offices have to close?”

“The Government is sending a mixed message which many find confusing.”