TORY reaction to Labour’s budget proposals “Cheshire West Budget debate ends with Conservative walkabout” will only reinforce the poor image of politics today.

The spectacle of just four Tories remaining in the council chamber for the budget vote and just one for the tax setting rate could be construed as an abdication of both representation and responsibility.

The complaint to the council chair, that the opposition amendment was not allowed and the time to comment was restricted from five to three minutes was without foundation insofar as the chair had given their finance spokesperson ample opportunity to give notice to move the amendment during her response address.

On at least three occasions, the chair informed members that speaking time would be restricted to three minutes – entirely sensible given 25 councillors wanted to speak.

In the face of an appalling financial settlement from central government, which leaves this council facing a £57 million gap over the next four years, Labour will target diminishing resources to help support and safeguard our most vulnerable children and adults, including our frail elderly and the disabled.

That is why Labour chose to take up the additional two per cent precept for adult care as have many other hard pressed councils in England, both Tory and Labour.

Getting to grips with the responsibilities of power and taking tough decisions is not an easy task and having an effective opposition at such tines is vital.

So please less of the silly antics when you don’t get your own way. It just turns people off.

Cllr Paul Dolan Cabinet member for Adult Social Care, and CWAC member for Winnington and Castle Ward