On Line

Political Cartoonist of the Year Martin Rowson's
view of the swingeing Hackney Council Cuts

GOVERNMENT
ULTIMATUM TO COUNCIL

The Government is finally getting tough(er) with Hackney Council. It has
issued draft directions that would require the Council to take steps to:

1. Produce a strategy to balance the budget and establish a new financial
system;
2. Recruit key staff with skills in procurement and contract management;
3. Produce proposals for a review of property and accommodation management;
4. Submit proposals on better services for older people and mental health
provision;
5. Clear the backlog of outstanding Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit
by 31 December;
6. Submit a plan for improving waste management and recycling.

The Council were given 14 days to respond.

Council Leader Jules Pipe, who has been resisting full Government control of Council services, gave a cautious welcome to DTI Minister Stephen Byers' statement. He said the directions 'are achievable' with 'appropriate support'. This means that the Council will be looking for Government money to keep things going until the finances are back in balance.