Worst off losing out from library newspaper cull
The Conservative-led administration revealed their plan only a few weeks after promising there would be no frontline cuts.
Local libraries have always carried a small selection of newspapers, each of which were read by a large number of people every day.
Commenting, local MP, Dan Rogerson said:
“Just as everyone else is getting themselves ready for a season of goodwill, the Council could hardly show itself to be more mean-spirited.
“They see a service which people use and value, and choose to snatch it away.
“My Lib Dem colleagues and I want as many people as possible to be able to read the area’s excellent quality local papers.”
Cllr Alex Folkes, Lib Dem Shadow Cabinet Spokesperson for Libraries and Leisure, added:
“The Conservative led administration at County Hall promised to cut bureaucracy but instead they are cutting free newspapers in local libraries. It’s quite clear that their penny-pinching is being aimed at some of the poorest and most vulnerable people in the County.
” People who read these newspapers tend to be older, poorer and with little or no access to the internet. When the Conservatives take away the papers in January, these people will be cut off from the news.
“Six weeks ago, Council Leader Alec Robertson promised no front line service cuts. The decision to take newspapers away from libraries proves that you can’t believe a word he says.”
Notes:
Council Leader Alec Robertson made his comments on BBC Radio Cornwall’s Laurence Reed Programme on 21st Oct 2009
