Peerage for Barnet Councillor
Long standing Liberal Democrat Councillor for Childs Hill, Monroe Palmer, has been appointed to the House of Lords.
Long standing Liberal Democrat Councillor for Childs Hill, Monroe Palmer, has been appointed to the House of Lords.
The Infrastructure Planning Commission's consultation on Covanta's plans to build a 600,000 tonne incinerator at Rookery Pit near Stewartby closed on Friday. I made a submission in a personal capacity. I have always been steadfast in my opposition to a project which represents an appalling prospect for Stewartby and for the wider Borough, and I set out my very strong objections to the proposal.
"In times of economic hardship, it is vital that social housing is effective in helping people get back on their feet."
Lib Dem MP Lynne Featherstone, the Equalities Minister, has sent a message in support of Transgender Day of Remembrance. The day commemorates those who have been killed due to anti-transgender hatred or prejudice.
When the Chairmen of some of the Council's Committees complained about the use of Twitter during meetings, the outcome wasn't quite what they expected!
The Government's passion for the idea of the 'Big Society' has caused some confusion over what exactly the term means, but for me if it is to prove successful it will be made real not by theoretical discussion of the concept, but by the willingness of those with power to hand it over to the lowest practical level. I've certainly tried to instill this approach in Bedford Borough Council, and recently we've had an excellent example of the way in which the Council can empower communities. We have handed over the management of the Mile Road Allotments to the Mile Road Allotment and Leisure Gardeners Association, who have the capacity, knowledge and the passion to run their own site. This move saves the Council around £3,000 a year, so it makes sense in every respect.