Responding to the news today that the Welsh Labour Government is to rewrite its plans for council reform by the autumn, Welsh Conservative Shadow Spokesperson for Local Government, Janet Finch-Saunders AM, said:
âWelsh Conservatives have been steadfastly opposed to the idea of a forced local authority merger from the outset and have previously made clear the need for a fresh and transparent approach.
âThat the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government has today confirmed that he is going back to the drawing board on this issue is a step in the right direction, but when exactly he intends to announce these plans remains unclear.
âMeanwhile, with so much uncertainty, concerns over future service provision, Council Tax rates and the very future of many of Walesâ proud counties continue unabated.
âAny plans going forward must be declared as soon as possible with maximum transparency, and need to be done in consultation with all parties, key stakeholders and – above all – local communities. Anything short of that would be undemocratic.â
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