Changes at County Hall
It has been announced that the Conservative leader of Surrey County Council, Cllr Dr Andrew Povey is to resign at the Council's next full meeting on 11 October.
21 Sep 2011
National News
PRESS RELEASE: Lib Dem Councillor proposes motion on Governments planning reforms
County Councillor David Bill will propose a motion next Wednesday, urging the County Council to strongly object to the Government's proposed changes to the planning system which threatens the countryside and other green spaces valued by local communities.
21 Sep 2011
Saving £36 Million Over Four Years - Have your Say on Council's Proposals
Last week my latest monthly column for the Times and Citizen Newspaper looked at the savings proposals which were approved for consultation by the all-party Executive last week. Consultation will begin next week, and will be open until late November, so please do have a look at the proposals and give your views. As I said in my column, it is only by working together during these tought times that we can ensure we are making the best decisions for our Borough, now and in the future. Here's the article in full, including a link to the section of the Council's website where you will be able to find out more about the proposals and how to take part in the consultation:
21 Sep 2011
LGBT+ Lib Dems pleased with Home Office Progress on Passports
Members of the LGBT+ Liberal Democrats were today pleased with news that the Home Office will be reviewing current rules on gender markers on passports. Executive members of the body have been lobbying the party and Government Equalities Office on this topic since the coalition was formed.
20 Sep 2011
Paul Burstow: A Liberal Blueprint for future of adult social care.
Liberal Democrat Autumn Conference today called for long-overdue reforms to adult social care, in line with the Dilnot Commission's and the Law Commission's recommendations, as well as the creation of a Older People's Commissioner for England to champion the rights of older people.
20 Sep 2011
In Bloom Gongs Recognise Borough's Green and Very Pleasant Lands
Not that we needed telling, as we all know it's true, but it's official: Bedford really is the most beautiful place in the Eastern region! Well, some might argue that winning top prize at the Anglia in Bloom awards does not confirm that there is nowhere as pretty as Bedford, but I think it is, and it is certainly nice that our attractive green spaces and local neighbourhoods have been recognised in this way. As I've always said, we're more concerned with ensuring that our neighbourhoods are attractive places to live and that residents can enjoy and take pride in them than with any prizes, but to have the quality of our green spaces and local environment acknowledged as the very best across the region is a testament to the work of volunteers, Council staff and of course local residents who look after their local area from day to day.
20 Sep 2011