Statement by Councillors Helen Dick and Fraser Macpherson, Liberal Democrat Group, Dundee City Council

Last week, we met with all three other political groups on the City Council to discuss a way forward for the administration of the Council for the next four years. The discussions were constructive.

We have now had the opportunity to read fully the manifesto proposals of the other parties. We have substantial concern at the number of costly proposals by the SNP group which, if introduced, even in part, would lead to a large increase in Council Tax in the City. We have worked, as part of a joint administration, over the past four years, to keep Council Tax increases to a minimum, whilst protecting vital services. The SNP manifesto, if introduced, would put all this in jeopardy.

Discussions with the other two groups on the Council have centred on maintaining services, with responsible growth within the context of keeping Council Tax increases to a minimum. We are pleased that they support proposals to give increased capital resources towards tackling unadopted pavements and there is agreement to streamline and make more efficient the Council's decision-making process.

We have today reached agreement with the Labour group for a new Labour/Liberal Democrat partnership agreement on the Council. The Liberal Democrat group will continue to work positively, in partnership with others, for the City of Dundee.