Opposition groups hit out at budget criticism

Dundee City Council leader John Alexander accused opposition groups of “poor form” by not sharing their budget proposals with other councillors — meaning elected members wouldn’t have time to scrutinise them before the meeting.

Mr Alexander said: “While the Labour group, in particular, has continually spoken about the need for greater openness and transparency, it is found wanting on the most significant meeting of the year.

“Our administration has presented both sides of the equation and laid out the exact detail about how we would balance the council’s budget.

“It appears the Labour group has provided an uncosted wish list.”

However, the Labour group hit back, claiming it has fewer resources available to prepare its budget.

Group leader Kevin Keenan, working with it — we only have a few and we are working to a tight timescale.” He added: “There are more important things than political point-scoring and Mr Alexander should be ashamed.” Liberal Democrat group leader Fraser Macpherson said accusations about a lack of transparency were indicative of the greater problem of a lack of consultation and called for a “wider review” of the budget process. Mr Macpherson said: “We carry out an extensive process on rent each year but there is no such thing for council tax and I think that is the bigger issue.” Councillor Philip Scott, Conservative group depute leader, said: “No matter what the Conservative group proposes, it’s the administration’s budget that will win the day, so it’s only right that it releases its plans well in advance to allow for proper scrutiny of them by the citizens of Dundee.”

OPPOSITION councillors hit out at accusations they had not been open with their proposals, ahead of a budget meeting today.