'Less freedom' for city's next political leaders

THE political leaders who end up running Birmingham City Council this year will have to follow a detailed action plan set out by government-appointed commissioners that will restrict their freedom to act, it has been revealed.

- JANE HAYNES People & Politics Editor

Lead Commissioner Tony McArdle

The city goes to the polls in May, with the prospect that the existing Labour administration could be removed after 14 years in charge.

New parties including Reform, an Independent Alliance and other community candidates intend to vie for the 101 seats, alongside Labour, Conservatives, Lib Dems and Greens.

But whoever ends up in overall charge will have to abide by a set of rules and missives laid out by the independent commissioners who currently oversee council affairs and answer to the Government.

That was the reality check issued by new lead commissioner Tony McArdle ahead of election campaigns which will begin to ramp now we are in the new year.