This in from Ian Ward on behalf of the Isle of Wight Group of Conservative councillors. Ed
Island Conservative Leaders raise
Island Case to the Secretary of State
Island Conservative Group Leader Councillor Dave Stewart and Isle of Wight Conservative Association Chairman Councillor Ian Ward raised the Island’s financial case directly with the Secretary of State, The Rt. Hon. Greg Clark MP at the Annual Conservative Councillors Association (CCA) Conference in Oxford last weekend.
Expressing his support for the principals of the ‘Fight for the Wight’ campaign Councillor Dave Stewart said:
“I attended the CCA conference with Councillor Ian Ward this weekend and we took the opportunity to discuss the Island’s financial position with the Secretary of State directly.
“The meeting built on previous discussions between the Secretary of State and the Island’s MP and a cross-party meeting in London with Marcus Jones MP, Minister for Local Government. Greg was fully aware of the current funding challenges and the impact it is having on the Island.
“We reminded Greg and Marcus (who was also present) that the Island is a unique case, as has already been recognised by the Prime Minister, in the letter below. We now need to present our unique funding challenges in a way which helps the government to appreciate the additional financial burdens which the Island faces to enable them to help us find ways to get through the immediate financial challenges.
“I support the government’s policy to reduce the deficit and the country voted the government into office on that basis. However, locally the consequences of the local government funding formula, inherited from a previous Government, have been devastating. The existing, long-standing formula simply does not recognise our unique situation. I told Greg we needed more support to enable us to cope with the consequences.
“So that’s the message Ian and I took to the heart of government this weekend, and I welcome the announcement of a full needs-based review to put in place a new formula. There was common acceptance that a different formula is required – one which takes into account the unique features that apply to the Island. In the meantime Greg indicated to us that they would take explore with the Treasury what could be done about the transitional arrangements regarding the use of capital receipts. It is clear he is determined to ensure that the Isle of Wight remains sustainable.
“I believe it is essential we work with our government to find a solution and not seek to create conflict with the government. That would not good for business, not good for our future economic development and not good for our Island – so I would oppose any conflict-based approach. Those that do not, need to know they are doing our Island no favours in this process. The government has already expressed a desire to work with us and we must be willing to work with them to find a solution.
“Greg had previously agreed with Andrew that he will come to the Island and look at our situation and he re-affirmed that intention to Ian and I during our meeting. I am grateful to Andrew for facilitating this opportunity to once again put the Island’s case to the front of the mind of the Secretary of State.”
