Liberal Democrats are continuing their negotiations with both Labour and the Greens to get a better deal for Lancashire.

County Councillor Bill Winlow said today, “We have been in intensive discussions with other parties since the local elections earlier this month. These discussions have been based around a policy document produced by the Liberal Democrats, in which we call for support for the vulnerable, pursuit of shared services with districts and the provision of an  infrastructure that will provide for sustainable economic growth for the whole county.”

LibDems proposed a rainbow alliance in order to address the difficult financial situation faced by the County. With no single party winning a mandate, we had hoped that all parties would put aside their political differences and work together. County Hall needs to save £1 in every £3 it currently spends in order to make the books balance over the next 4 years.

We regret that the Conservatives have broken off talks. Despite extensive efforts on our part the Conservatives showed little intention to conclude an agreement.

The Liberal Democrats will nonetheless continue to talk to both the Greens and Labour in the hope of joining with them in a progressive administration for the benefit of Lancashire residents. We recognise that some of the proposals we put forward will cost more and as such when we come to set the budget in February 2014, there will need to be strict budgetary control of the County’s finances.

These policies all form part of the Liberal Democrat’s call for a Greener, Fairer and Stronger Economy for Lancashire.