SO, the Labour Leader believes his modest budget recommendations demonstrate fresh ideas and are an example of a new way of doing things (Rival parties present budget alternatives Evening Post February 3).

Well, he doesn't seem to have weaned himself off the old tactic of 'smearing' other parties with his accusation of their having concluded a 'grubby deal'. I do not believe there is anything 'grubby' in wanting to restore cuts to day services, youth provision, the Library Book Fund and finding a bit more money for pest control. Peter should know by now that without securing some understanding with the majority Party, Labour's worthy plans will simply bite the dust. Without the backing of others, Cllr Hammond must realise that his amendment is really just a form of gesture politics because the promised spending will never see the light of day. Therefore, I make no apology for trying to reach some sort of an accord with my political opponents. I can live with this so long as it means we can better look after our elderly, young people and library users.

Looking closely at the Labour proposals, I am not entirely sure he has got all of his sums right but I will leave that issue for our meeting at the end of the month.

Councillor Peter Abraham

Conservative Leader