Agenda item

The Cabinet considered a joint report of the Corporate Director, Resources and Director of Transformation and Partnerships which provided an update on the development of the 2017/18 budget and the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP(7)) reflecting upon the content of the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s Autumn Statement Review published on 23 November 2016.  The report also provided an update on the Council Plan and Service Plans (for copy see file of minutes).

Councillor J Armstrong, Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Management Board advised Cabinet of the discussions that had taken place at two recent meetings of scrutiny, and that overall they agreed with Cabinet on the handling of the austerity measures, including the reserves. They had agreed there was a robust consultation process in place, and made some suggestions on the MTFP model as detailed in the report. He advised that the next meeting is to take place on 26 January when further consideration would be given.

Cabinet members spoke of the continuing austerity measures being faced by the council, and the recent statement of the Chancellor of the Exchequer about the significant deterioration in the national finances which could stretch into the next parliament. It was hoped that the austerity measures on this authority would not continue into the next term as this council had made more than its share of cuts, with savings of £250m.They would continue lobbying the government on this. There was also uncertainty on social care funding, and a statement was awaited from government.

They advised of the consultation that had taken place in the autumn with over 3,000 members of the public taking part, and 2,000 forms completed, with over 60% agreeing that the council’s proposed approach was a reasonable way forward. Cabinet members thanked members of the public, and scrutiny for their involvement in the consultation. The final settlement was expected shortly, and Cabinet would consider this at its meeting in January, prior to consideration on the budget at the February council meeting.

Resolved:

That the recommendations in the report be approved.