Labour reveals its agenda for austerity times

The Kirklees branch launched its election manifesto ahead of the May 22 local council elections. Nine current Labour councillors will seek re-election to Kirklees Council, while other party candidates will fight for the remaining seats.

The party says a new approach is needed in times of austerity. By 2017, Kirklees will have £129m less to spend a year than it did in 2010 – a 37 per cent cut.

Labour’s priorities include keeping the Kirklees pound in Kirklees by designing council contracts to encourage bids from small and medium-sized businesses, and bringing empty properties back into use.

The party aims to build more affordable housing by lobbying central government to lift capital borrowing restrictions to improve supply.

The community will also have to play its part in taking on services Kirklees will no longer be able to afford. They will offer council buildings for use or takeover by community groups.

The party will also lobby government for more cash for road repairs.