Lib Dems Demand Cheaper Alternative For Mayor's Car

3.47.03pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 29th Jun 2005

Plans for a brand new 3 litre MPV for the Mayor have been questioned by borough Liberal Democrats keen to keep cost down and look at greener alternatives.

The plans which will be discussed by the Mayor and his Cabinet at tonight's Executive meeting, recommend buying a brand new vehicle at a cost of approximately £23,000. Lib Dems believe cheaper alternatives should be found and where a car is needed greener options should be looked at as a priority.

Michael Headley commented "At a time of extreme cutbacks, the Mayor should look very carefully before he agrees to spend £23,000 on a new car, especially when cheaper alternatives exist. Taxpayers rightly demand value for money and to pay £23,000 for a car, plus all of the running and drivers costs, to do only 4,000 miles a year has to be looked at. I also hope that environmental issues will be considered as the council should be setting an example not splashing out on a gas guzzler."

ENDS