Labour dismisses council cut to 40

Labour has dismissed the idea of axing a third of Oldham councillors, saying it could cost money instead of saving money.

Last week the controlling Liberal Democrat-Tory administration suggested reducing councillor numbers from 60 to 40 to save on allowances and election costs.

But Labour group leader Councillor Jim McMahon said today: “This is not about improving democracy, and certainly not about making the council relate to the community.

“This is more about how desperate the Lib-Dems have become where they clearly struggle to get three electable candidates to stand in each ward.

“Labour councillors work hard for the communities they serve and the amount of casework is proof that there is a need for greater support. We look forward to hearing more on how this might work in practice.”

He added that reducing councillors would not cut the workload: “It will simply mean remaining councillors will either have to work full time and then be subject to a proportionate increase in allowances if the current system remains.”

The basic allowance is £8,900 which is subject to tax and national insurance. The second element covers expenses such as telephone, postage and travel.

Labour deputy leader Councillor Shoab Akhtar said: “Any move to make the council more representative of the people of Oldham would be welcomed, but this is not mentioned.

“Support to candidates with young families or caring arrangements would be welcomed, but again nothing. This is really nothing more than a headline grabbing with no substance.”

But the group backs the idea of a four-year term for councillors which would allow an administration time to see through change and then be judged on the end product.