Issue - meetings

Question submitted by Councillor M Thompson

The Leader, like me, was probably shocked by the hundreds of motorists arrested for drink driving over the Christmas period. It is important that community leaders set a good example and I am sure the Leader agrees with me that the arrest and subsequent resignation of the Conservative Leader of Worcestershire County Council for drink driving has not helped the image of local politicians. Personally, I do not share the point of view of local Conservative Pam Davey, that Adrian Hardman's generation "would barely think about the consequences". It is not, as she says, "easy" to breach the drink driving limit - particularly when one remembers the deaths of the children who have suffered on our roads at the hands of drink drivers. In view of this, will the Leader take a moral stance and set an example by insisting that, for Councillors, these premises are an alcohol – free zone and that those who wish to use them for functions, should they choose, supply their own drinks?

The Leader responded that she did not share the views of Councillor Davey.  The Council provided alcoholic drinks following the annual meeting of the Council and at civic events and would not become alcohol free.

Question submitted by Councillor P. McDonald

In the light of the Controlling Group being unaware of its own Government reducing the Revenue Support Grant and crying poverty. When only a few years ago it had in the bank in excess of £22m. However, it now finds itself in debt to millions of pounds and the Planning Department in Special Measures:

Does the Leader not agree with me that there is an urgency to set up a Monitoring Board to monitor the performance of this Council, before it finds itself back in Special Measures? 

The Leader replied that the changes to the settlement grant came as a complete surprise to her and to the Local Government Association.  She believed that the calculations were incorrect.  The Council’s reserves had been over £9.6m for the last 6 years and the Cabinet would bring forward proposals for adjustments to the budget position shortly.

Question submitted by Councillor C. McDonald

Would the Leader of the Council please inform me of the total costs over the last two years of engaging consultants, temporary and casual workers?

The Leader responded that the Council had spent £586k in 2013-14 and £395k in 2014-15.

Question submitted by Councillor S. Baxter

Would the Leader say what the energy efficiency rating is for our new Council Building at Parkside relative to our old Council premises?

The Leader replied that the certificate stating the energy rating for Parkside had not yet been received.