BEVERLEY – East Riding Councillor Denis Healy, the Leader of the Liberal Democrats at County Hall, has responded to claims made by Councillor Victoria Aitken, portfolio holder for Children and Young People, regarding the origin of a £150,000 youth funding initiative in the recent budget. The debate centres on the allocation of a community support reserve fund, leading to political disagreements within the East Riding and prompting residents to call for greater collaboration among local politicians.
In a letter to the Hull Daily Mail, Councillor Aitken challenged the assertion that Councillor Tony Henderson was solely responsible for securing the full £150,000 for youth projects. She acknowledged that while Councillor Henderson proposed £75,000 for the Beverley Cherry Tree Project during budget discussions in January, the final £150,000 allocation resulted from a broader, cross-party decision. Councillor Aitken emphasised that Council Leader Anne Handley, her Cabinet, and other group leaders played significant roles in increasing the funding to benefit more community groups. She stated, “It’s important to make sure the facts are right so that the public understands how these decisions are made,” highlighting the collaborative effort behind the funding decision.
In response, Councillor Healy sent an email to local media to clarify the Liberal Democrats’ involvement. He explained that on 13th January, he submitted a proposal for £75,000 to support the Beverley Cherry Tree Project, authored by Councillor Henderson. However, after receiving no acknowledgment, the Liberal Democrat group advanced a broader proposal: a £150,000 fund for youth projects across the East Riding, not limited to a single initiative.
Councillor Healy noted that this proposal was discussed at a group leaders’ meeting on 24th January, where it was positively received by the Council Leader and subsequently included in the final budget. He emphasised that the £150,000 allocation originated from the collective efforts of the Liberal Democrat group, with Councillor Henderson playing a leading role.
While Councillor Healy aims to clarify the situation, local social media observers have expressed frustration over the apparent infighting. Many residents wish for councillors to set aside differences and collaborate. One commenter noted, “It’s all about youth services, not who gets the credit,” while another remarked, “This is why people don’t vote.”
A source close to the leadership commented, “All members will naturally want to publicise their contribution, though ultimately, this was a Conservative budget that the Lib Dems didn’t support, so it is harder to see how they can enjoy all the praise.”
The row continues.