The New Year is a time to look ahead, and first of all I would want to wish everybody in Reading all the best for 2012.
Sadly, we know it’s not going to be an easy year. Reading’s economy is in better shape than many, but people who’ve lost their jobs or had wages cut are finding it hard to cope with household bills: increases in food and fuel costs are hitting everyone.
The Government’s economic strategy is being widely questioned as unemployment and the deficit continue to rise. And they have no “Plan B”.
Despite everything, here in Reading people from all backgrounds are determined to stay positive and contribute to the community spirit which makes Reading such a great place.
The Government is cutting the Council’s budget by a further £5,200,000 in 2012-13, making a total of £22million cuts since the Coalition came to power, while we face pressures like increasing numbers of elderly residents and children in care.
Labour Councillors have been working hard on the budget since we returned to office in May, trying to protect services for the most vulnerable. We have also reversed some of the charges imposed by the Conservative led Coalition last year – stopped their huge hike in charges for elderly day care, reversed their cut in visitors’ parking permits, given disabled people back the right to use bus passes before 9.30 a.m., and scrapped the green bin “stealth tax”.
The recent “Let’s talk” events have given us invaluable feedback from the public and we will take this forward in the New Year.
Whatever 2012 brings we will do our best to work with residents to maintain the excellent community relations which are Reading’s hallmark. There will also be events to look forward to as 2012 brings the Olympics, Diamond Jubilee Parties and, hopefully, a successful end to the season for the Royals!
My best wishes to everyone.
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