Milton Keynes Liberal Democrats

A 'Grave mistake' has been made by the Conservatives in Milton Keynes, according to Cllr Andy Maric from Newport Pagnell who is also the Lib Dems Opposition spokesperson for Finance and uncovered the hidden increases.

Lib Dems from Newport Pagnell uncovered hidden charges from the Conservative Council's budget which specifically targets stillborn babies and children under 16yrs who die, they are set to face a 40.63% increase in Burials and Cremation charges which is hidden behind an 'average' of a 10% increase in charges across the board for Burials and Cremations.

"It's an absolute disgrace that the Conservatives not only tried to hide this 40.63% increase in charges for stillborn babies and children who die, but its completely immoral and insensitive to think that they would even propose such a thing, quite frankly it makes me feel sick", said Cllr Andy Maric.

The Conservative Budget which is currently on Milton Keynes Council's website for Consultation does not display the Council's exemptions to the standard 4% increase across the board, 'Annex E', and the only reference to Burials and Cremations in the paper back copies, is a "average of 10%".

Cllrs Douglas McCall and Paul Alexander both agreed and said that "How can the public possibly provide feedback on a public budget when figures are hidden and they try to keep it a secret, surely the Consultation process so far is void?"

Rev Jenny Mills, minister of the United Reformed Chuch, whom is also representing other Churches from Newport Pagnell and agrees with the Lib Dems on this issue said, "No cuts or increases are ever easy or welcomed but it seems particularly harsh to make increases that hit people when they are at their most vulnerable, especially when faced with having to deal with the death of their baby or child. The impact of the increased costs will make money a focus, and an extra burden, when families are grieving and struggling anyway".

A petition has been set up online to try and force the Conservative Cabinet member for Finance to resign and also tell the Public what else they are hiding in their secret budget: www.ipetitions.com/petition/council-secrets/

You can also tell the Council what you think direct by emailing: budget@Milton-Keynes.gov.uk or write to; Budget Consultation, Civic Offices, 1 Saxon Gate East, Milton Keynes, MK9 EJ before 3rd February 2012.

A CONSERVATIVE proposal to raise council house rents by an average of £4.78 a week has been rejected by Milton Keynes Council.

At the council meeting Lib Dem members proposed a counter offer, an increase of no more than £3.14 a week, which was agreed.

Lib Dem leader, councillor Sam Crooks, said: "The Conservative proposal is grossly unfair. It is well above what the rate of inflation will be this coming year, and hits at some of the least well off people in our city."