Green councillors opposed the latest budget from Labour-run Reading Council because it asks people to pay more and get less. Council tax and rents are rising above inflation, while services are still being cut. That is not fair for residents who are already struggling. As a Green councillor, I believe we should protect local services and keep costs down where possible.
The bigger problem is national. Councils like Reading are not being properly funded by the Labour government. That leaves local authorities stuck making difficult choices—cutting services while increasing bills. I want to see proper funding so councils can support communities without forcing people to pay more for less. When the government is not funding councils properly, I want to see Labour or whoever runs the council shouting this from the rooftops not spinning figures and pretending everything is okay.
The Green Party is the main opposition in Reading
Here in Reading, the Green Party is now the main opposition on the council. We have more councillors than the Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and Reform combined. Support for the Green Party is growing strongly, and in many areas it is now a close contest between Greens and Labour.
Have your say this May – vote Green
In April, polling cards will arrive for the local elections on Thursday 7 May. If you don’t receive one, it likely means you are not registered to vote. There is still time to register and make sure your voice is heard – www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.
If you are going to be away on polling day, you can apply for a postal vote – www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote. Elections are your chance to have a say on how Labour is performing—both here in Reading and across the country. Every vote matters, and this year your vote could make a real difference.
By voting Green, you can elect a hard-working local councillor and send a clear message to Labour that you expect better. I see every day how much residents care about their community, and I believe we can build a fairer, greener, cleaner future together.
By Councillor Rob White (Green Party, Park Ward), Leader of the main opposition group on Reading Borough Council
