Minutes for City Council Budget Meeting meeting, Mar 4 2009, 5.00PM official page

The Chief Executive to invite declarations of interest from members. 

Members please note that there are three ways of declaring interests at Council meetings:-

(1)     If you have been appointed by the Council to one of the outside bodies on the list (to the back of the Chamber), and there is an item which clearly relates to that body, then it is sufficient if your name is on the list that is displayed, and Council agrees to note the list.  It is up to you to check that your name is displayed.

(2)     You can write or email Committee Services before the meeting setting out your interest and the item to which it relates.  These details will be included on the list displayed, and it is then sufficient if Council agrees to note the list.

(3)     You can also make an oral declaration of your interest when these are invited at the start of the meeting, or as soon as possible after then if you realise later that you have an interest.  You can do this even if your interest is on one of the lists, for example if you want to draw particular attention to your interest.  You should do so if your interest would not be clear to members of the public from the lists.

Can I therefore ask members to confirm that they have read the list of personal interests and the list of nominations to outside bodies at the back of the Chamber, and to agree its contents please?

Can I also now seek any further declarations which are not included on the list?

In all instances Members should indicate whether the interest is personal or prejudicial and state the reasons for the interest.

Subject

Member/Officer

Type of Interest

Nature of Interest

Questions

Q2 – Liverpool Airport

Q15 – Regeneration in North Liverpool

Q19 – MPTA Buses

Q22 – Broadband Internet Access

Peter Millea

Gary Millar

Peter Millea

Richard Ogelthorpe

Gary Millar

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

As a Director of Liverpool John Lennon Airport

As a representative of Stepclever

As a Member of the Merseyside Passenger Transport Authority

As a Member of the Merseyside Passenger Transport Authority

As Chair of Digital & Creative Sub Regional Standard Working Group

Item 5 – CRB Disclosures for Councillors

Richard McLinden

Paul Clein

Jan Clein

Personal

Personal

Personal

By virtue of employment

By virtue of son’s employment

By virtue of son’s employment

Item 8 – Key Strategies and Documents

Beatrice Fraenkel

Gary Millar

Warren Bradley

Marilyn Fielding

Wendy Simon

Ann O’Byrne

Louise Baldock

Liam Robinson

Flo Clucas OBE

Jane Corbett

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

As the Chairman of  Mersey Care NHS Trust; Chair of Cosmopolitan Housing Association; Non-Executive Director of Cosmopolitan Housing Group and School Governor of King David High School

As the Chair of Liverpool First Cultural Strategy Task Group; As a Member of Liverpool First Economic Development SIP; As a representative of Stepclever

As the Chair of Liverpool First Executive Board

As a Member of the Liverpool First Executive Board

As a member of the Management Committee of Central Youth Club

By virtue of daughter being employed by the Youth Service

As a Board Member of the Kensington Regeneration Board; as a Board Member of Venture Housing Association; and As a Panel Member of Dream High

As a Board Member of Liverpool Mutual Homes

As a member of the Council of Tate Liverpool

Trustee of West Everton Community Council;Director of Liverpool Philharmonic Halls and

Events Ltd; and

By virtue of husband being an unpaid warden of Shrewsbury House Youth Club

Item 9 – Budget Report 2009/10 Update

Gary Millar

Warren Bradley

Flo Clucas OBE

Personal

Personal

Personal

As a representative to Brouhaha International and As a Trustee of St George’s Hall Charitable Trust

By virtue of employment

As a Member of the Project Monitoring Committee – Objective 1

Item 11 – Protecting Citizens of Liverpool

Richard McLinden

Barbara Mace

Phil Moffatt

Tina Gould

John Clucas

Karen Afford

Jan Clein

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

As a foster carer for a young person in receipt of EMA. 

As an Assistant Executive Member

As an Assistant Executive Member

As an Assistant Executive Member

As an Assistant Executive Member

As an Assistant Executive Member

As an Assistant Executive Member

Item 13 – Failures of the Banking System

Tim Moore

Nick Small

Richard McLinden

Ann O’Byrne

Frank Prendergast

John McIntosh

Malcolm Kennedy

Doreen Knight

Colin Strickland

Louise Baldock

Janet Kent

Janet Kent

Ron Gould

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal

Personal and Prejudicial

By virtue of employment

As a Member of the Co-Op Bank

As a Member of a Credit Union

As a Member of a Credit Union

As a Member of a Credit Union

As a Member of a Credit Union

As a Member of a Credit Union and a Member of the Co-Op

By virtue of employment

By virtue of employment

As a Member of UNITE

As a member of the Co-Op Bank

As an Association Board Member – Residents Parking Scheme

As a Business Consultant

Item 14 – Student Accommodation

Pam Clein

Eddie Clein

Warren Bradley

Personal

Personal

Personal

By virtue of son owning a student house

By virtue of son owning a student house

By virtue of employment

Item 15 – Marie Curie

Gary Millar

Personal

As the Chair of Linda McCartney Cancer Centre’s Field of Women Appeal

Item 16 – Apprenticeship Schemes and Training of Young People

Pam Clein

Personal

As a member of LMH Board

__________

Motion by Councillor Paul Twigger:

With the permission of the Council and in accordance with Standing Orders 27.3, members of Operation Black Vote (OBV) Programme be allowed to sit with Councillors within the Chamber.

A vote was taken, the Motion was carried.

__________

LORD MAYOR ANNOUCEMENTS

§         The Lord Mayor – reminded members and officers that the meeting was a key public meeting and as such the respective codes of conduct should be observed and that all members and officers should ensure that  they treat each other with due respect.

The Lord Mayor also reminded Members that proceedings in the Chamber were only subject to qualified privilege.  Comments made maliciously may leave a Member open to a claim in defamation. He further reminded Members, that, although the Constitution of the City Council provides an indemnity for Members who are sued in defamation, that indemnity will be withdrawn if it is adjudged that the Member has acted recklessly.

§         Lord Mayor – informed members who wished to participate and speak on items at the Council Meeting to indicate clearly and ensure that he had taken note of them indicating to speak.

__________

With the permission of the Council the request to record the performance of the Choir was approved.

__________

VOICE CHOIR performed under the guidance of Liam Moore.

__________

The Lord Mayor addressed the Council regarding his term of office as Lord Mayor and thanked the Council and others for their support.

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Warren Bradley, the Leader of the Opposition, Councillor Joe Anderson, the Leader of the Liberal Party, Councillor Steve Radford and the Leader of the Green Party, Councillor John Coyne each thanked the Lord Mayor for his outstanding contributions throughout the year, for being a great ambassador for the City and for his tremendous efforts in raising over £600,000 for his chosen charities.

__________

Resolved that the following individual be included on the roll of the Citizen of Honour: -

a)     Colonel Bryson – in recognition of his services to the City of Liverpool.

The minutes of the Extraordinary and Ordinary City Council Meetings held on 28 January were approved and signed by the Lord Mayor subject to the following amendments being made: -

a)     Minute No. 80 – BSF Wave 6: Strategy for Change 2 Submission – “Chair of Governors Abbotts Lee School, Councillor Rose Bailey” being amended to correctly read “Chair of Governors Abbotts Lee School, Councillor Wendy Simon” ;

b)     Minute No. 80 – BSF Wave 6: Strategy for Change 2 Submission -  “On the Management Committee of Central Youth Club, Councillor Rose Bailey” being amended to correctly read “On the Management Committee of Central Youth Club, Councillor Wendy Simon”;

c)      Lord Mayor Announcements – “Alsop Primary School” being amended to correctly read “Alsop High School”; and

d)     Minute No. 89 – “Amendment by Councillor Anna Rothery, seconded by Beatrice Fraenkel” being amended to correctly read “Amendment by Councillor Beatrice Fraenkel, seconded by Councillor Anna Rothery.

__________

REQUESTS TO RECORD PROCEEDINGS:

With the permission of the Council the following individual and organisation were allowed to record and film the proceedings: -

a)      Councillor Paula Keaveney       -           in relation to “A day in the life of a                                                         Councillor” audio diary for Radio                                                                            Merseyside

b)     BBC’s The One Show                -           in relation to Item 11 – Protecting                                                                     Citizens of Liverpool.

__________

REQUESTS TO ADDRESS THE COUNCIL:

With the permission of the Council the following individuals were allowed to address the meeting: -

a)     Alex Royden                                -          As a student representative in                                                                           relation to Student Accommodation.

b)     Julie Lyon Taylor             -           As the General Secretary of the                                                                        National union of Teachers Liverpool                                                                     in relation to Children Services.

__________

__________

Motion by Councillor Paul Twigger: -

That the Order of Business be varied according to Standing Orders 17.1 (iii) to allow Motions 11 – Protecting Citizens of Liverpool and Motions 9 – Budget Report 2009/10 Update to be considered after Item 5 – Criminal Records Bureau Disclosures by Councillors.

A vote was taken, the Motion was carried.

__________

Question Time was held for a period of 30 minutes.

Resolved that the following changes in Committee Membership and Appointments to Outside Bodies be approved: -

1.      Education & Skills Select Committee – Councillor Richard McLinden be appointed as an alternate to replace Councillor Doreen Knight as an alternate member on the Education and Skills Select Committee.

2.       Appointments & Disciplinary Panel – Councillor Joe Anderson be appointed as an alternate to replace Councillor Rose Bailey as an alternate member on the Appointments and Disciplinary Panel.

In the light of the tragic death of Baby P, the subsequent Joint Area Review carried out at Haringey Council and the letter sent to all Lead Members and Directors of Children’s Services from the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families suggesting that consideration be given to all elected members having a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) disclosure carried out, this City Council strongly supports the view that all its elected members should have an enhanced CRB disclosure carried out as soon as possible.

In order to achieve this the Executive Director for Children’s, Families and Adults Services be requested to write to all elected members to obtain their agreement to applications being made on their behalf, which initiative will be supported by the Labour and Liberal Democrat party leaders of Liverpool City Council writing an endorsement to their members.  

The Interim City Solicitor be requested to report as a matter of urgency to the relevant Executive Members and Select Committees on the question of making such disclosure applications compulsory for all elected members.

The Executive Director for Children’s, Families and Adults Services be requested to report to the next meeting of the Health Care and Safeguarding and Education and Skills Select Committees, building upon the recent presentations, with an outline of the training programme for members in relation to safeguarding. 

These steps reflect how seriously all Liverpool’s elected members take their responsibility for safeguarding all of the City’s children and vulnerable adults.

(As agreed and deferred from the last meeting of the

Council held on 28 January 2009)

Motion by Councillor Ann O’ Byrne:

In the light of the tragic death of Baby P, the subsequent Joint Area Review carried out at Haringey Council and the letter sent to all Lead Members and Directors of Children’s Services from the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families suggesting that consideration be given to all elected members having a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) disclosure carried out, this City Council strongly supports the view that all its elected members should have an enhanced CRB disclosure carried out as soon as possible.

In order to achieve this the Executive Director for Children’s, Families and Adults Services be requested to write to all elected members to obtain their agreement to applications being made on their behalf, which initiative will be supported by the Labour and Liberal Democrat party leaders of Liverpool City Council writing an endorsement to their members.  

The Interim City Solicitor be requested to report as a matter of urgency to the relevant Executive Members and Select Committees on the question of making such disclosure applications compulsory for all elected members.

The Executive Director for Children’s, Families and Adults Services be requested to report to the next meeting of the Health Care and Safeguarding and Education and Skills Select Committees, building upon the recent presentations, with an outline of the training programme for members in relation to safeguarding. 

These steps reflect how seriously all Liverpool’s elected members take their responsibility for safeguarding all of the City’s children and vulnerable adults.

__________

Amendment by Councillor Richard Kemp,

seconded by Councillor Sir Trevor Jones;

Delete all after “In the light of the tragic death of Baby P” and insert the following: -

“in Haringay, and following the advice of the legal service and safeguarding professionals in the City; this Council confirms its commitment to ensuring the safety of its most vulnerable children and families whilst supporting the excellent work of our safeguarding professionals in their difficult and demanding responsibilities.

Recognising that it is not enough to tick all the boxes and achieve a satisfactory OFSTED score, this Council will put in place a programme of monitoring and support in which Councillors and professionals will work together, to include:

a)     A comprehensive training programme for elected members, to include the legal framework, inspection, monitoring skills and the appropriate enhanced CRB check for those directly in contact with young people.

b)     A report to the next meeting of the Healthcare and Safeguarding Committee outlining:

• Review the arrangements for Councillor involvement in its corporate parenting and safeguarding activities and to include any proposed changes in our review of Constitutional arrangements at the Annual meeting in May 2009

Council requests the Chief Executive to write to The Secretary of State for DCSF, Ed Balls requesting him to: 

• Review the efficiency and operating practice of OFSTED, who within a matter of months gave wildly contradictory opinions of Haringey Council.
• Review whether the practice insisted upon by the Government of creating super sized children's services departments has been effective in bringing together the necessary disciplines to provide wrap around care for children.
• Review whether the continuing setting of silo based targets are preventing rather than encouraging professionals to work together to service the needs of the children rather than the needs of their organisations.

Further the City Council should allow all Councillors the opportunity to obtain standard CRB clearance, if the individual deems it necessary and their requirement meets the criteria.

A vote was taken, when there appeared –

For the Amendment – 44                                         Against it – 38

Karen Afford

Joe Anderson

Vera Best

Rose Bailey

Warren Bradley

Louise Baldock

Linda Jane-Buckle

Christine Banks

Paul Clark

Paul Brant

Eddie Clein

Frank Cooke

Jan Clein

Jane Corbett

Pam Clein

John Coyne

Paul Clein

Alan Dean

Flo Clucas OBE

Brian Dowling

John Clucas

Beatrice Fraenkel

Barbara Collinge

Roz Gladden

Colin Eldridge

Dave Hanratty

Marilyn Fielding

Joe Hanson

Ron Gould

Sarah Jennings

Tina Gould

Malcolm Kennedy

Graham Hulme

Janet Kent

Dave Irving

Doreen Knight

Roger Johnston

John McIntosh

Sir Trevor Jones

Richard McLinden

Paula Keaveney

Tim Moore

Malcolm Kelly

Steve Munby

Erica Kemp

Barbara Murray

Richard Kemp

Jim Noakes

Jimmy Kendrick

Ann O’Byrne

Chris Lenton

Frank Prendergast

Barbara Mace

John Prince

Andrew Makinson

Irene Rainey

Gary Millar

Mary Rasmussen

Peter Millea

Liam Robinson

Norman Mills

Anna Rothery

Philip Moffatt

Wendy Simon

Josie Mullen

Nick Small

Richard Oglethorpe

Colin Strickland

Steve Radford

Sharon Sullivan

Jean Seddon

Alan Walker

Laurence Sidorczuk

Pauline Walton

Nadia Stewart

Claire Wilner

Michael Storey CBE

Andrew Tremarco

Berni Turner

Keith Turner

Paul Twigger

Lynnie Williams

The Amendment was carried and on being put as the Substantive Motion and agreed it was resolved accordingly.

__________

MOTION FOR DEBATE SUBMITTED BY THE

LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION

This Council notes the widespread concern about the effects of some of the Council cuts which are to be implemented in the following months.

The Council also welcomes the Leader of the Council's acknowledgement that the implications of the previous budget option to save money from the School Crossing Patrol Service was not fully understood and recommends as follows:-

1. Council notes the widespread concern expressed by the business sector in Liverpool, including by the Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Business in Liverpool and many retailers and enterprises, about the proposal to increase the times for parking charging from 6pm to 8pm. Council notes that this would place Liverpool at a serious disadvantage to other Cities and retail centres.

Council therefore recommends not to implement such a policy in order to protect jobs and the local economy in the City.

1. Council notes the widespread concern expressed by the Leader of the School's Parliament about the proposal to remove free travel from 16-18 year olds in the City. This Council believes that to justify this on the basis that many of these young people receive Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) is deeply unfair. EMA is a means tested financial support provided to young people in financial need to support them continuing in education. To reduce this support to the 2006 young people in the City who receive EMA may cause many to leave education, and thus reduce their life chances and employment prospects.

Council therefore recommends not to implement such a policy in order to protect our young people.

1. Council notes the proposal to charge residents in residents controlled parking zones for additional visitor permits. Council believes that the residents in these areas already suffer from considerable traffic and parking problems (which is why the controlled zones were implemented). Further when residents were originally consulted they were told that they would not have to pay for visitor tickets.

Council therefore recommends not to implement such a policy in order to honour its moral obligations to local residents.

Council recommends to balance the financial effect of the above changes by the following modifications to the Council expenditure:-

a)     Deletion of payments for Assistant Executive Members, saving £82,000; and

b)     Defer the adoption of the growth option for Housing and Neighbourhoods into the 2010/11 financial year, saving £318,000.

(Submitted in accordance with Standing Orders 19.1 - No resolution or decision of the Council shall be rescinded or varied during the Council Year in which it was passed, except on the recommendation of the Executive Board or by a Notice of Motion agreed by the Council).

Motion by Councillor Joe Anderson:

This Council notes the widespread concern about the effects of some of the Council cuts which are to be implemented in the following months.

The Council also welcomes the Leader of the Council's acknowledgement that the implications of the previous budget option to save money from the School Crossing Patrol Service was not fully understood and recommends as follows:-

1. Council notes the widespread concern expressed by the business sector in Liverpool, including by the Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Business in Liverpool and many retailers and enterprises, about the proposal to increase the times for parking charging from 6pm to 8pm. Council notes that this would place Liverpool at a serious disadvantage to other Cities and retail centres.

Council therefore recommends not to implement such a policy in order to protect jobs and the local economy in the City.

1. Council notes the widespread concern expressed by the Leader of the School's Parliament about the proposal to remove free travel from 16-18 year olds in the City. This Council believes that to justify this on the basis that many of these young people receive Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) is deeply unfair. EMA is a means tested financial support provided to young people in financial need to support them continuing in education. To reduce this support to the 2006 young people in the City who receive EMA may cause many to leave education, and thus reduce their life chances and employment prospects.

Council therefore recommends not to implement such a policy in order to protect our young people.

1. Council notes the proposal to charge residents in residents controlled parking zones for additional visitor permits. Council believes that the residents in these areas already suffer from considerable traffic and parking problems (which is why the controlled zones were implemented). Further when residents were originally consulted they were told that they would not have to pay for visitor tickets.

Council therefore recommends not to implement such a policy in order to honour its moral obligations to local residents.

Council recommends to balance the financial effect of the above changes by the following modifications to the Council expenditure:-

a)     Deletion of payments for Assistant Executive Members, saving £82,000; and

b)     Defer the adoption of the growth option for Housing and Neighbourhoods into the 2010/11 financial year, saving £318,000.

 A vote was taken, when there appeared –

 For the Motion – 40                                                     Against it – 43

Joe Anderson

Karen Afford

Rose Bailey

Peter Allen

Louise Baldock

Vera Best

Christine Banks

Warren Bradley

Paul Brant

Linda Jane-Buckle

Frank Cooke

Paul Clark

Jane Corbett

Eddie Clein

John Coyne

Jan Clein

Alan Dean

Pam Clein

Brian Dowling

Flo Clucas OBE

Beatrice Fraenkel

John Clucas

Roz Gladden

Barbara Collinge

Dave Hanratty

Colin Eldridge

Joe Hanson

Marilyn Fielding

Sarah Jennings

Ron Gould

Sir Trevor Jones

Tina Gould

Malcolm Kennedy

Graham Hulme

Doreen Knight

Dave Irving

Chris Lenton

Ian Jobling

John McIntosh

Roger Johnston

Richard McLinden

Paula Keaveney

Tim Moore

Malcolm Kelly

Steve Munby

Erica Kemp

Barbara Murray

Richard Kemp

Jim Noakes

Jimmy Kendrick

Ann O’Byrne

Barbara Mace

Frank Prendergast

Andrew Makinson

John Prince

Gary Millar

Steve Radford

Peter Millea

Irene Rainey

Norman Mills

Mary Rasmussen

Philip Moffatt

Liam Robinson

Stuart Monkcom

Anna Rothery

Josie Mullen

Wendy Simon

Richard Oglethorpe

Nick Small

Jean Seddon

Colin Strickland

Laurence Sidorczuk

Sharon Sullivan

Nadia Stewart

Alan Walker

Michael Storey CBE

Pauline Walton

Andrew Tremarco

Claire Wilner

Berni Turner

Keith Turner

Paul Twigger

Lynnie Williams

The Motion was lost.

To consider a report by the City Treasurer relating to the Budget Report 2009/10 update.

Resolved that the Budget Report of the City Treasurer (CT/10//09) as recommended to the City Council be approved and: -

a)     the following Budget Framework as approved on the 28 January 2009 for the financial year 2009/10 be noted -

Budget Framework

2009/10 Budget

2010/11 Forecast

2011/12 Forecast

£000's

£000's

£000's

Grow the City's Economy

67,277

70,625

73,388

Develop our Communities

92,724

95,116

98,769

Empower our Residents

221,879

224,882

230,053

Corporate Development

30,021

32,031

33,555

 Budget Framework

411,901

422,654

435,765

Central Services

88,763

95,059

100,808

Corporate Contingency

1,000

2,500

2,500

Budget Contingency

10

0

0

Procurement Efficiencies

-2,700

-2,700

-2,700

Capital Financing

-12,572

-10,093

-9,127

Special Financing:-

   Capitalisation

-1,000

0

0

   Area Based Grant Effects

-4,000

-2,000

0

   Residual Housing Revenue Account Balances

-2,338

0

0

Reserves - use of

-9,636

-3,847

-3,094

Reserves - created

8,659

6,749

6,749

Additions to Balances

4,000

2,500

2,500

Net Budget Requirement

482,087

510,822

533,401

Total Formula Grant

-320,341

-325,086

-329,150

Total Council Tax Income

-165,646

-172,166

-178,940

Other Collection Fund Items

3,900

Total Financing

-482,087

-497,252

-508,090

Budget Gap Remaining

0

13,570

25,311

Opening Balances

-11,000

-15,000

-17,500

Additions to Balances

-4,000

-2,500

-2,500

Available Balances

-15,000

-17,500

-20,000

b.         having regard to the City Council’s own council tax decision and those decisions of the Merseyside Police Authority and Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service relating to their precepts, the council, in accordance with Section 30(2) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, approve the following amounts as the amounts of council tax for the year 2009/10 for each of the categories of dwellings shown below:-

COUNCIL TAX PRECEPTS 2009/10

Valuation Bands

Liverpool City Council's Council Tax

Merseyside Police Authority Precept

Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service Precept

Overall Council Tax

£     :  p

£     :  p

£     :  p

£     :  p

A

872.09

93.74

41.58

1,007.41

B

1,017.44

109.36

48.51

1,175.31

C

1,162.79

124.99

55.44

1,343.22

D

1,308.14

140.61

62.37

1,511.12

E

1,598.84

171.86

76.23

1,846.93

F

1,889.54

203.10

90.09

2,182.73

G

2,180.23

234.35

103.95

2,518.53

H

2,616.28

281.22

124.74

3,022.24

and

c.                   the council’s prompt payment discount scheme approved for 2008/09 continue for 2009/10.

None submitted.

Resolved that the Council designates the newly appointed City Solicitor –

(a)         as the Council’s Monitoring Officer under section 5 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 to undertake the functions and responsibilities for that role as outlined in Article 12.03 of the Council’s Constitution;

(b)        as the Proper Officer under the Local Government Acts, the Registration Services Act 1953 and all related legislation to undertake the relevant functions including those indicated by references to the City Solicitor within the Constitution; and

(c)        the Council agrees that designation will take effect upon the new appointee taking up his post with the Council.

To consider a decision of the Executive Board of 27 February in relation to the following Key Strategies and Documents –

(i)           Sustainable Communities Strategy;

(ii)         Corporate Performance Plan; and

(iii)       Medium Term Financial Plan.

(NOTE: The decision of the Executive Board will be reported at the meeting.)

Motion by Councillor Warren Bradley:

That subject to the following changes being made to the Sustainable Communities Strategy: -

• Chapter 2 – Connectivity, Achieving the Vision - that the following bullet point be deleted: - “continued growth in passenger numbers to the City’s airport from 5.5m in 2007 to 11m by 2024” and

• Chapter 2 – Connectivity, Monitoring Progress, Measures of success -  that the following phrase be deleted “from 5.5m in 2007 to 11m by 2024

(i)           these key plans and strategies as submitted including the updated position with regards to the negotiations on the current Local Area Agreement be approved;

(ii)         the following be included in the Treasury Management Strategy in respect of the arrangements for determining its Minimum Revenue Provision (MRP) for 2009/10 –

·              for all capital expenditure incurred before 1 April 2008, the MRP to be calculated as 4% of the capital financing requirement;

·              for all capital expenditure financed by supported borrowing after 1 April 2008, the MRO to be calculated as 4% of the capital financing requirement; and

·              for all capital expenditure financed by unsupported (prudential) borrowing after 1 April 2008, the MRP to be calculated in accordance with the life of each asset as estimated either at the time of the asset acquisition or the asset becoming operational; and

(iii)       in relation to the documents authority be granted for the Chief Executive in consultation with the Leader of the Council to make any minor adjustments prior to their publication.

__________

First Amendment by Councillor Jane Corbett,

seconded by Councillor Paul Brant:

That the Motion be approved, subject to bullet point (iii) being amended to include the “the Leader of the Opposition” being inserted after “the Leader of the Council”.

__________

During the course of the debate the First Amendment was accepted and became the Substantive Motion.

__________

Second Amendment by Councillor John Coyne,

seconded by Councillor Sarah Jennings:

That the motion be agreed subject to the following bullet point being deleted: - “continued growth in passenger numbers to the City’s airport from 5.5m in 2007 to 11m by 2024” from Chapter 2 Connectivity, Achieving the Vision from within the Sustainable Community Draft Strategy document.

A vote was taken, the Second Amendment was lost, the Substantive Motion was agreed and it was resolved accordingly.

__________

(Councillors Steve Radford, Chris Lenton,

John Coyne and Sarah Jennings dissenting)

__________

MOTION FOR DEBATE SUBMITTED BY THE

LEADER OF THE COUNCIL

This Council applauds the opportunity offered by the European Commission to extend the European Objective 1 Programme for Merseyside by 6 months, thereby enabling Liverpool and Merseyside to take full advantage of the potential to assist small and medium sized businesses at this most difficult time.

Council is appalled by the stance of the UK Government that has allowed the extension for Scotland, Wales and N Ireland, but refused to apply for the extension for England, thereby cutting off £100ms in assistance from the most vulnerable areas. Liverpool and Merseyside stand to lose millions of pounds by this decision; millions that will eventually end up in the UK Treasury.

Council requests the Chief Executive to write to Alistair Darling, Hazel Blears, Lord Mandelson and all the Merseyside MPs lobby for a full refund of any monies received by the Government that were intended for Merseyside, be given back to this area to enable us to take full advantage of the money that was given to the area through the Objective 1 Programme, to help our small businesses, social enterprises and entrepreneurs throughout Merseyside.

Motion by Councillor Flo Clucas OBE:

This Council applauds the opportunity offered by the European Commission to extend the European Objective 1 Programme for Merseyside by 6 months, thereby enabling Liverpool and Merseyside to take full advantage of the potential to assist small and medium sized businesses at this most difficult time.

Council is appalled by the stance of the UK Government that has allowed the extension for Scotland, Wales and N Ireland, but refused to apply for the extension for England, thereby cutting off £100ms in assistance from the most vulnerable areas. Liverpool and Merseyside stand to lose millions of pounds by this decision; millions that will eventually end up in the UK Treasury.

Council requests the Chief Executive to write to Alistair Darling, Hazel Blears, Lord Mandelson and all the Merseyside MPs lobby for a full refund of any monies received by the Government that were intended for Merseyside, be given back to this area to enable us to take full advantage of the money that was given to the area through the Objective 1 Programme, to help our small businesses, social enterprises and entrepreneurs throughout Merseyside.

A vote was taken, the Motion was carried.

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THREE MOTIONS FOR DEBATE SUBMITTED BY

NON EXECUTIVE MEMBERS

That this City Council joins with other local authorities to urge the Government to scrap the 5% vat on domestic fuel not withstanding any current EU regulations given that a large % of domestic gas supplies are bought from continental sources.

Further, Council requests that the Executive Member for Finance and Europe look into the possibility of requesting that legislation be established to remove the unwelcome primary charges levelled by Domestic Fuel suppliers which have an inbuilt primary charge within the pricing structure which is in effect another way of levelling a Standing Charge.

Motion by Councillor Colin Eldridge:

That this City Council joins with other local authorities to urge the Government to scrap the 5% vat on domestic fuel not withstanding any current EU regulations given that a large % of domestic gas supplies are bought from continental sources.

Further, Council requests that the Executive Member for Finance and Europe look into the possibility of requesting that legislation be established to remove the unwelcome primary charges levelled by Domestic Fuel suppliers which have an inbuilt primary charge within the pricing structure which is in effect another way of levelling a Standing Charge.

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First Amendment by Councillor Nick Small,

seconded by Councillor Jim Noakes:

To delete all after “That this City Council” and insert the following: -

“notes that many aspects of the pricing structure of domestic fuel including primary charges are unfair and contribute to fuel poverty.

Council further notes that under the Sixth Directive it is not in the UK Government’s power to reduce the rate of VAT on domestic fuel to an amount lower than 5%.

Council therefore requests officers to revisit the current fuel poverty strategy, in light of the commitments made in the Local Area Agreement, the transfer of housing stock out of Council control, the difficult fuel supply situation and the North West Climate Change Action Plan and bring forward a new action plan and timetable, which should include lobbying the Government, the regulatory authorities and gas and electricity companies to take action against unfair charges.

Council agrees to work with energy companies to publicise and promote the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) programmes which can provide funding for energy efficiency measures as well as the Energy Saving Trust in providing help and advice to Liverpool people.

Council calls on the Executive Member for Safer, Stronger Communities and the Executive Member for Environment to provide a response to the Government’s Renewable Energy Strategy emphasising the importance of adapting the way we source and use energy to improve fuel poverty for Liverpool people.

Council agrees to use all of its communication channels to provide energy efficiency and income maximisation help and advice to Liverpool residents.”

A vote was taken, the First Amendment was lost.

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Second Amendment by Councillor Phil Moffatt,

seconded by Councillor Paul Twigger:

That the Motion be agreed and the following be inserted at the end: -

“Council notes that the Government admits that less than 1% of British homes are ‘Energy efficient’.

Council further notes that the National audit has found that over half of Britain’s poorest households are eligible for the £852m Warm front scheme, leaving thousands of people cold this winter.

Council notes that locally the City Council in partnership with the PCT is investing £9million on a ‘healthy homes’ initiative – improving the energy efficiency of homes and ultimately cuts fuel costs for poor families.  

Council requests the Executive Member for Environment to investigate the ‘Green mortgages’ scheme which would enable householders to use the savings from their lower energy bills to pay back loans to improve energy efficiency of their properties.”

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During the course of the debate the Second Amendment was accepted and on being put as the Substantive Motion and agreed it was resolved accordingly.

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Council notes that Liverpool, as a major international City, used to have a regional bank (Martins) based near the Town Hall and two regional building societies (Liverpool and Merseyside) headquartered within the conurbation.

Council notes how over the past 30 years there has been a centralisation of banking decision making that means that crucial decisions about business and investment in our City is being made in rooms hundreds or thousands of miles away from us by people with little or no concern for the City's businesses and its workers.

Council also notes the considerable success of Merseyside Councils in deploying Objective One money into grants and investments for Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through bodies such as the Merseyside Special Investment Fund and the experience gained by the public sector on Merseyside in investment in and with the private sector.

Council therefore requests the Executive Member for Finance and Europe to look into establishing a commission to examine ways in which the City Council can use its financial and other muscle to support the establishment or strengthening of credit unions, regionally based mutuals, regional banking and other financial institutions. The commission to include membership of the North West TUC, representative bodies for credit unions, a representative from the Coop Bank, the Building Societies Association,  the British Banking Association, the Chamber of Commerce and the other 5 Councils on Merseyside.

Motion by Councillor Richard Kemp:

Council notes that Liverpool, as a major international City, used to have a regional bank (Martins) based near the Town Hall and two regional building societies (Liverpool and Merseyside) headquartered within the conurbation.

Council notes how over the past 30 years there has been a centralisation of banking decision making that means that crucial decisions about business and investment in our City is being made in rooms hundreds or thousands of miles away from us by people with little or no concern for the City's businesses and its workers.

Council also notes the considerable success of Merseyside Councils in deploying Objective One money into grants and investments for Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through bodies such as the Merseyside Special Investment Fund and the experience gained by the public sector on Merseyside in investment in and with the private sector.

Council therefore requests the Executive Member for Finance and Europe to look into establishing a commission to examine ways in which the City Council can use its financial and other muscle to support the establishment or strengthening of credit unions, regionally based mutuals, regional banking and other financial institutions. The commission to include membership of the North West TUC, representative bodies for credit unions, a representative from the Coop Bank, the Building Societies Association,  the British Banking Association, the Chamber of Commerce and the other 5 Councils on Merseyside.

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Amendment by Councillor Tim Moore,

seconded by Councillor Paul Brant:

that the Motion be agreed subject to after the words “Chamber of Commerce” the following be inserted: -

“the Financial Inclusion Champion for Greater Merseyside”

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During the course of the debate the Amendment was accepted and on being put as the Substantive Motion and agreed it was resolved accordingly.

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Council notes the importance to Liverpool of the student population and recognises that if the student experience in the City is good, graduates are more likely to stay here and seek employment rather than take their skills elsewhere.

Council notes that one of the important factors for students in this experience is accommodation and relationships with accommodation providers.

Council notes with alarm that students are now reporting that they are being pressured by some accommodation providers into signing contracts early and at extremely short notice.  This is resulting in some young people having to leave important lectures and seminars because of being told to “sign now or lose the house”.

Council believes that it is wrong to put young people into a situation where they have to choose between their learning and the following years’ accommodation needs.

Council therefore calls on the Executive Member for Safer Stronger Communities to convene a meeting of student representatives and accommodation providers to see what can be done to ease the pressure students are currently experiencing.

Motion by Councillor Paul Twigger:

Council notes the importance to Liverpool of the student population and recognises that if the student experience in the City is good, graduates are more likely to stay here and seek employment rather than take their skills elsewhere.

Council notes that one of the important factors for students in this experience is accommodation and relationships with accommodation providers.

Council notes with alarm that students are now reporting that they are being pressured by some accommodation providers into signing contracts early and at extremely short notice.  This is resulting in some young people having to leave important lectures and seminars because of being told to “sign now or lose the house”.

Council believes that it is wrong to put young people into a situation where they have to choose between their learning and the following years’ accommodation needs.

Council therefore calls on the Executive Member for Safer Stronger Communities to convene a meeting of student representatives and accommodation providers to see what can be done to ease the pressure students are currently experiencing.

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Amendment by Councillor Nick Small,

seconded by Councillor Christine Banks:

To delete the final paragraph and insert the following: -

“Council further notes next week’s Student Accommodation Summit funded by the Central Ward Councillors devolved Working Neighbourhoods Fund and supported by City and North Neighbourhood Services, Liverpool Student Homes, Merseyside Police, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, Liverpool Guild of Students and Liverpool Students Union, which will bring together all major student accommodation providers across the City.

Council therefore agrees that the issue if signing contracts early is brought up at the Student Accommodation Summit.”

A vote was taken, the Amendment was lost, the Motion was carried and it was resolved accordingly.

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CROSS PARTY MOTION

In accordance with Standing Order 7.2 (xi), Motions that are submitted to Council that has all party support will be submitted with an indication on the agenda that it would be agreed without debate, subject to the approval by the Council.

Council notes that 2009 is the 50^th anniversary of Marie Curie in Liverpool.

Council applauds this organisation and other cancer support groups that provide vital assistance to thousands of cancer suffers across the City.

Council believes that there is a need to produce ‘an end of life’ strategy across partner organisations in the city to ensure patients receive the very best care possible.

Council requests the Chief Executive to make arrangements to provide ‘daffodil’ boxes in all Council buildings to enable all staff and visitors to show their support for the charity by wearing a yellow daffodil.

Motion by Councillors Barbara Collinge, Barbara Mace and Malcolm Kelly:

Council notes that 2009 is the 50^th anniversary of Marie Curie in Liverpool.

Council applauds this organisation and other cancer support groups that provide vital assistance to thousands of cancer suffers across the City.

Council believes that there is a need to produce ‘an end of life’ strategy across partner organisations in the city to ensure patients receive the very best care possible.

Council requests the Chief Executive to make arrangements to provide ‘daffodil’ boxes in all Council buildings to enable all staff and visitors to show their support for the charity by wearing a yellow daffodil.

A vote was taken, the Motion was carried.

Council notes the importance of Apprenticeship schemes in training young people with the skills needed to get into the workplace.

Council notes the Modern Apprenticeships scheme which is working over the country and notes the young people currently engaged by Knowsley Borough Council and their major contractors.

Council believes that at a time of economic slowdown that high quality apprenticeships are a valuable entry route into work for young people and should be encouraged.

Council requests that the Executive Director for Regeneration and the Executive Member for Enterprise and Tourism be requested to report to the Education and Skills Select Committee with proposals to improve the number of apprenticeships offered by the Council itself and its major partners such as Enterprise Liverpool, Liverpool Direct Ltd and those engaged by Liverpool Mutual Homes.

Council also further requests that consideration should be given to whether the Council can require the provision of apprenticeships as part of the requirements imposed in its procurement regime.

Motion by Councillor Paul Brant:

Council notes the importance of Apprenticeship schemes in training young people with the skills needed to get into the workplace.

Council notes the Modern Apprenticeships scheme which is working over the country and notes the young people currently engaged by Knowsley Borough Council and their major contractors.

Council believes that at a time of economic slowdown that high quality apprenticeships are a valuable entry route into work for young people and should be encouraged.

Council requests that the Executive Director for Regeneration and the Executive Member for Enterprise and Tourism be requested to report to the Education and Skills Select Committee with proposals to improve the number of apprenticeships offered by the Council itself and its major partners such as Enterprise Liverpool, Liverpool Direct Ltd and those engaged by Liverpool Mutual Homes.

Council also further requests that consideration should be given to whether the Council can require the provision of apprenticeships as part of the requirements imposed in its procurement regime.

A vote was taken, the Motion was carried.

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The Lord Mayor agreed to take the next following item of business as a matter of urgency because it is in the best interest of the citizens of the City.

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Motion by Councillor Joe Anderson:

That in accordance with Standing Orders 26.1 and Standing Orders 17.1 (iii) and (xiii), Standing Orders be suspended to allow the order of business to be varied to allow the following Motion to be considered.

A vote was taken, the Motion was carried.

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 This City Council:

1. notes the British National Party (BNP) had planned to hold a march in Liverpool City Centre on 14 March 2009;

1. states categorically that the division that the BNP engenders in all fair minded people is not welcome on the streets of Liverpool, and places on record its thanks to the members of the public who stood up for “Hope not Hate” and signed the petition in opposition to the proposed march;

1. condemns the BNP’s original refusal to move the date of their leaflet campaign which resulted in Merseyside Police needing to ask to the Football Association (FA) to change the date of the Everton versus Stoke City Premier League Football match, giving priority to public safety but inconveniencing supporters from both clubs;

1. notes that the proposed march has now been cancelled; and

1. believes that the interests of football supporters and the general public should come before the desire of the BNP to promote their divisive ideology and welcomes the Government’s consideration of guidelines to ensure this can never be allowed to happen again.

This City Council therefore requests that the Chief Executive: -

a)     writes to Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) and the Home Secretary requesting that guidelines be brought in to ensure that the interests of football fans and the general public are considered ahead of those seeking to promote hatred and division; and

b)     on behalf of the Council offer its support to the non party political and peaceful events which oppose the values and beliefs of the BNP and promote and celebrate the diversity of Liverpool.

Motion by Councillor Joe Anderson:

 This City Council:

1. notes the British National Party (BNP) had planned to hold a march in Liverpool City Centre on 14 March 2009;

1. states categorically that the division that the BNP engenders in all fair minded people is not welcome on the streets of Liverpool, and places on record its thanks to the members of the public who stood up for “Hope not Hate” and signed the petition in opposition to the proposed march;

1. condemns the BNP’s original refusal to move the date of their leaflet campaign which resulted in Merseyside Police needing to ask to the Football Association (FA) to change the date of the Everton versus Stoke City Premier League Football match, giving priority to public safety but inconveniencing supporters from both clubs;

1. notes that the proposed march has now been cancelled; and

1. believes that the interests of football supporters and the general public should come before the desire of the BNP to promote their divisive ideology and welcomes the Government’s consideration of guidelines to ensure this can never be allowed to happen again.

This City Council therefore requests that the Chief Executive: -

a)     writes to Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) and the Home Secretary requesting that guidelines be brought in to ensure that the interests of football fans and the general public are considered ahead of those seeking to promote hatred and division; and

b)     on behalf of the Council offer its support to the non party political and peaceful events which oppose the values and beliefs of the BNP and promote and celebrate the diversity of Liverpool.

Amendment by Councillor Steve Radford,

Seconded by Councillor Chris Lenton:

To delete all after “This City Council” and replace with the following: -

Council believes the said motion is not a true emergency furthermore it has only gained disproportionate publicity for the British National Party’s (BNP) failed attempt to hold a march in the City of Liverpool.

To seek to undermine the right of any group to hold a political march is to undermine the rights of all citizens to hold a political march. This is the slippery slope to fascism.

This Council recognises that the limited growth of the BNP has largely come about in working class constituencies which were predominantly socialist strongholds.

The rapid growth in inequality in British society, lack of affordable housing and despair in the job market are the real factors leading to the growth of extremist parties. Should the Labour Party wish to combat the BNP then it, and all other democratic parties have to create a political agenda of reduced inequalities, greater employment security and opportunities, rather than gimmick motions at Liverpool City Council which will be noticed by nobody.”

A vote was taken, the Amendment was lost, the Motion was carried and it was resolved accordingly.

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INFORMATION DOCUMENT

(The following remaining motions were not recommended for debate and were deemed as either withdrawn or to be referred to the appropriate Select Committee).

That this City Council deplores and refutes the despicable conclusions drawn by the Institute of Education a University of London research body which tested some 4000 children of working mothers to see if they were better off if they had been sent to nursery or day cared by granny.

Further this City Council applauds the loving nature of care and attention heaped upon children by grandparents in this City and would look to mark this unconditional free care in some way. In these stressful times for families of job losses trying to hold family budgets together working longer hours or away from home the grandparents play a key role in care, education and love and it is free and could be a central plank against the tide of hurt against children which we see and read about daily. Grandparent’s love of the children is better than anything and we must get back to Child Centred Society and would like to invite any member of the Institute to come to Liverpool to talk to our wonderful grandparents

(Referred to the Health Care and Safeguarding Select Committee)

That this City Council deplores and refutes the despicable conclusions drawn by the Institute of Education a University of London research body which tested some 4000 children of working mothers to see if they were better off if they had been sent to nursery or day cared by granny.

Further this City Council applauds the loving nature of care and attention heaped upon children by grandparents in this City and would look to mark this unconditional free care in some way. In these stressful times for families of job losses trying to hold family budgets together working longer hours or away from home the grandparents play a key role in care, education and love and it is free and could be a central plank against the tide of hurt against children which we see and read about daily. Grandparent’s love of the children is better than anything and we must get back to Child Centred Society and would like to invite any member of the Institute to come to Liverpool to talk to our wonderful grandparents

(Referred to the Health Care and Safeguarding Select Committee)

Council notes the Secretary of State’s indication that the Manchester will pilot the introduction of the Government’s ID Card as outlined in EDM 672.

Council notes that the initial roll out of the scheme will centre on Manchester Airport and its staff.

Liverpool City Council reiterates its opposition to ID cards for Liverpool residents and reasserts its opinion that the investment if ID cards should instead be invested in more police on the beat.

Council requests that the Chief Executive writes to Liverpool Airport /Peels Holdings to place on record its opposition to the rolling out of a similar pilot in Liverpool.

(Referred to the Overview and Scrutiny Select Committee)

Council notes the Secretary of State’s indication that the Manchester will pilot the introduction of the Government’s ID Card as outlined in EDM 672.

Council notes that the initial roll out of the scheme will centre on Manchester Airport and its staff.

Liverpool City Council reiterates its opposition to ID cards for Liverpool residents and reasserts its opinion that the investment if ID cards should instead be invested in more police on the beat.

Council requests that the Chief Executive writes to Liverpool Airport /Peels Holdings to place on record its opposition to the rolling out of a similar pilot in Liverpool.

(Referred to the Overview and Scrutiny Select Committee)

Council notes the decline in the bee population which has been commented on by academics, environmentalists and agricultural experts.

Council notes that too much of a decline will lead to a situation in which plants cannot be properly pollinated.  This in turn will lead to alarming food shortages.

Council believes that a UK wide drive is needed to protect the existing bee population and increase its numbers.

Council therefore requests the Executive Member for the Environment to look into ways for the Council to play its part by: -

• exploring ways of finding space for hives on plots of land such as allotments;
• working with community groups and community environmental projects to see if hives can be established and maintained by their groups;
• working with schools to look at opportunities to promote bee keeping projects; and
• exploring bee keeping training for community groups and environmental projects.

(Referred to the Sustainable Communities Select Committee)

Council notes the decline in the bee population which has been commented on by academics, environmentalists and agricultural experts.

Council notes that too much of a decline will lead to a situation in which plants cannot be properly pollinated.  This in turn will lead to alarming food shortages.

Council believes that a UK wide drive is needed to protect the existing bee population and increase its numbers.

Council therefore requests the Executive Member for the Environment to look into ways for the Council to play its part by: -

• exploring ways of finding space for hives on plots of land such as allotments;
• working with community groups and community environmental projects to see if hives can be established and maintained by their groups;
• working with schools to look at opportunities to promote bee keeping projects; and
• exploring bee keeping training for community groups and environmental projects.

(Referred to the Sustainable Communities Select Committee)

Council notes the progress of the Government’s ‘Coroners and Justice Bill’.

Council, whilst welcoming the strengthening of the laws surrounding child pornography, and witness protection believes that the proposed legislations leaves open the opportunity for the Government to possibly amend the data protection act.

Clause cl.152 if passed would potentially allow ministers to make; Information sharing orders’ that can alter any Act of Parliament and cancel all rules of confidentiality in order to use information obtained for one purpose to be used for another.

Council believes this to be illiberal and threatens the civil liberties of Liverpool residents.

Council calls on the Chief Executive to write to the Merseyside MPs asking them to oppose this element of the Coroners & Justice Bill.

(Referred to the Overview and Scrutiny Select Committee)

Council notes the progress of the Government’s ‘Coroners and Justice Bill’.

Council, whilst welcoming the strengthening of the laws surrounding child pornography, and witness protection believes that the proposed legislations leaves open the opportunity for the Government to possibly amend the data protection act.

Clause cl.152 if passed would potentially allow ministers to make; Information sharing orders’ that can alter any Act of Parliament and cancel all rules of confidentiality in order to use information obtained for one purpose to be used for another.

Council believes this to be illiberal and threatens the civil liberties of Liverpool residents.

Council calls on the Chief Executive to write to the Merseyside MPs asking them to oppose this element of the Coroners & Justice Bill.

(Referred to the Overview and Scrutiny Select Committee)

Council notes the statements by Professor Chris Field, author of a 2007

Council notes the statements by Professor Chris Field, author of a 2007

Council welcomes the decision by the Liberal Democrat Administration to think again about losing the valuable services of school crossing patrol attendants.

Council welcomes the decision by the Liberal Democrat Administration to think again about losing the valuable services of school crossing patrol attendants.