Liberal Democrats condemn huge hikes in charges- but small relief after Lib Dem action. (Barnet Borough Liberal Democrats)

Barnet Borough Liberal Democrats <info@barnetlibdems.org.uk>

Liberal Democrats condemn huge hikes in charges- but small relief after Lib Dem action.

January 19, 2009 11:41 PM

Barnet Council is increasing cemetery charges by 9 to 10%

The story below, about inflation busting charges to the costs of council services, appeared on this web site and in the local press last week. The Tory Cabinet Member responsible Brian Coleman then admitted that he had not read the papers and was withdrawing some of the increases.

Lib Dem group leader Cllr Jack Cohen responded:

"This goes to show what an effective opposition can do. We have exposed the fact that the cabinet member had no idea what was going on. I trust common sense will now prevail and that the charges will not be increased "

Below is the original story -dated 13 January.

The leader of Barnet Liberal Democrats, Cllr Jack Cohen, is accusing the Conservative administration of introducing inflation busting charges for council services. Papers just released set out proposals for 2009-10 which will mean Barnet residents will be hit by a range of above inflation price increases. The proposals are revealed in a report going to the Cabinet resources committee next Monday night.

Councillor Jack Cohen is highlighting increases in parking, pest control and cemetery and crematorium fees.

Residents parking permits are set to increase on average by 6% whilst parking meter charges also go up by more than inflation.

The cost for rats, mice and cockroach treatment is going up on average 7%

Whilst the charges for burials and cremations are set to increase by a massive 9-10 %

Cllr Cohen says "Last week the Tories were patting themselves on the back. They were boasting a less than inflation council tax rise. Now the truth is out. Residents will be paying dearly in other ways. Higher parking charges will effect town centre trading. People will find it much more expensive to control vermin. But, surely the most unfeeling and shocking increase is the 10% escalation in charges for digging a child's grave. Even entries in books of remembrance do not escape the hikes in charges"

Councillor Cohen added "At a time when prices are supposed to be going down these increases are unacceptable. The Liberal Democrats will be opposing these rises."