[Mebyon Kernow] Services Privatisation a ‘Nonsense’

Mebyon Kernow – the Party for Cornwall, has hit out at the decision of Conservative-led Consel Kernow /Cornwall Council, to part-privatise a series of key services.

Cornwall Council is in discussion with two large private companies, one of which will jointly run services such as benefit payments, libraries and one-stop shops.

It is stated that other partners such as the Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust could also be involved, but had yet to commit to the project.

The leadership of the Council claims that the venture would create 500 jobs and produce savings of £5 million in the first two years.

But MK has branded these claims as a “nonsense,” agreeing with local union representatives that “the whole thing does not stack up.”

In a statement issued today, MK’s group on Cornwall Council said:

“MK opposes the ongoing privatisation of council services by the present Cabinet. We find it disturbing that Cornwall Council would also be a minor partner in such an arrangement, with councillors sidelined and local democracy undermined still further.

“We do not accept the claims about the projected savings or the new jobs, and worry for the future of Cornwall Council as a public sector entity.”

MK Leader in Consel Kernow, Cllr Dick Cole, will make further comment once more unfolds on this unpopular move.

Contact Mebyon Kernow: http://www.mebyonkernow.org/

3 August, 2012