Oldham Liberal Democrat councillors have met following the local elections which saw Labour lose control of Oldham Council after 13 years in power.
The party unanimously elected councillor Howard Sykes MBE as Group Leader and councillor Sam Al-Hamdani as Deputy Leader at their recent meeting.
Councillor Sykes issued the following statement, after discussions with colleagues, following their meeting.
“Labour have lost control of Oldham and the Liberal Democrats have already ruled out any formal coalition with them.”
“There are nine Liberal Democrats (largest group after Labour on 27) and eight Conservatives. It is not clear what the numbers are for the others – whether they are actually independent individuals, or actually groups just claiming to be independent (16 in total). It is now for the so-called independents to organise themselves and tell everyone who is in what group, if any.”
“It is possible to replace this tired Labour administration with something better, but for that to work, politicians in all other groups (and none) will need to work together and start talking to each other.”
“The Liberal Democrats are clear about what needs to happen and are up for the challenge.”
“Any new administration must call for a full public inquiry into historic child sexual abuse.”
“There must be a fresh vote on Oldham’s participation in ‘Places for Everyone’ – Labours Greater Manchester-wide housing scheme.”
“And the next administration must save Oldham Coliseum Theatre at the Fairbottom site.”
“It also needs to get the basics right and much tougher stance on enviro-crimes like littering, dog fouling and fly-tipping that blight our Borough and Communities.”
“These are our absolute priorities. We have a vision for Oldham’s future without Oldham Labour, and we are ready to get to work. The question is, are others?”
Can you also look into how education budget is allocated for School expansion?
Can you also look into how we can improve the admissions criteria for school places?
Always happy to have a look at this given a chance.