THE Warrington Borough Council Liberal Democrat opposition is calling for greater scrutiny of the Budget at a time when the Labour Administration is under Government oversight, which is due to be released today, Friday.
Group Leader Cllr Mark Browne said, “We are not happy that all Labour Councillors were briefed about the content of the Budget. Only four of my group were briefed and I was prevented from consulting the rest of my colleagues. This creates an imbalance of democratic scrutiny. This is not about party politics. It is about ensuring that all elected councillors can properly represent residents when massive financial decisions are being made. We recognise that national pressures on local government make choices about cuts extremely difficult, but residents deserve the highest standards of financial management and scrutiny.”
Deputy Group Leader Cllr Helen Speed added, “We have concerns about the risks attached to many of the savings’ proposals and the devastating consequences should savings not materialise. We are very worried about the cumulative impact of these proposals on residents, particularly the most vulnerable.
The spreadsheet senior leaders have seen detailing the cuts is full of vague statements that without details and realistic risk analyses may be wishful thinking and rely on reviews to deliver the specific savings outlined for the next four years. We have repeatedly asked and been promised this information since the 21 October 2025 and it hasn’t been forthcoming. These cuts will have a huge impact on people’s lives, and we needed more information much sooner than a few days before the budget is publicised to be able to support officers and offer alternatives. Now we need stronger assurances that they will be achieved.”
Finance Spokesperson, Cllr Ian Marks says, “We welcome the appointment of a Liberal Democrat, Cllr Wendy Johnson, as Chair of the Scrutiny Committee. This was suggested in the Best Value Review, but the Labour Administration has turned down our request for another Liberal Democrat to replace Wendy as an ordinary member. To do this would demonstrate their commitment to proper scrutiny.”
Meanwhile, indedepent group leader Cllr Stuart Mann has also expressed disappointment at not being given sight of the budget ahead of publication, with two online public briefings scheduled for next week.
“Whilst I’m sure the meetings on Monday and Tuesday might not be as detailed, it appears as though Businesses and Community Groups are going to be briefed on the proposed budget before the remaining Liberal Democrat, Independent, Conservative and Reform Cllrs who have a scheduled session on Wednesday.
“Whilst I am fully supportive of the need for such briefings it does seem rather strange doing them in this order, particularly if any of those businesses or community groups have follow up questions with those same cllrs.”
It’s understood the Labour group will issue a statement on the Budget at noon today.
