Council refuse to speculate if job cuts are on way

STOCKTON

- By GARETH LIGHTFOOT Local democracy reporter

Council leaders have said they do not wish to "speculate" on the possibility of job cuts as the authority faces a £11.5m budget gap.The cabinet of Labour-run Stockton Council has said "difficult decisions" lie ahead but none have been made yet.

Council bosses have been called upon to make savings as the authority faces "unprecedented" challenges, with a £4.1m overspend forecast this financial year and officers set to recommend a 5% maximum council tax rise.

Conservative group leader Cllr Tony Riordan asked at the cabinet meeting on Thursday, December 11: "Why is it only now that a strengthened programme of service reviews, efficiencies and cost reductions will be required? And will those cost reductions include staff cuts?"

Deputy council leader, Paul Rowling replied: "Clearly that's not something we'd want to speculate on here and now because it's people's lives etc.

"Difficult decisions will need to be made in this budget process. At this moment in time all options will be looked at. But as of now no decisions have been made."