Local MP to address local government funding issues at LGA Conference

10.09.04

Local MP Edward Davey will be championing the cause of local government at a conference held by the Local Government Association in London next Wednesday 15th September. He will be speaking on 'Reforming Local Government Revenue'.

This will provide a unique opportunity to hear leading politicians and policy experts discuss the outcomes of the recent balance of funding review. The problems with the balance of funding are well documented - high council tax rises and reduced accountability. This conference looks to explore the main options for increasing the portion of revenue raised locally, while also considering the implications of the recent Balance of Funding Review report for local government finance.

Edward Davey MP, who is the Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and has spearheaded a national campaign to axe council tax, said,

"How local government is funded affects us all.

"Where the funding comes from has a direct influence on how it is spent. This conference will be an excellent opportunity to push forward the agenda for reforming local government revenue.

"I will be raising issues that are of direct concern to those living in Kingston and Surbiton; for example, how local public services are funded and what can be done about the unfair council tax that Conservative and Labour governments have tinkered with to such an extent that it now cripples pensioners and those on a low income.

"These are issues that must be addressed."