Council Budget 2023: The Cost of Labour

We have been amazed by the outcry from local people following the new Labour administration’s announcement earlier this month.

Whatever your political affiliation, seeing council tenant rents increase by 7%, Council tax up by 2% and homes for key workers - like our junior doctors, nurses, and teachers - being slashed, simply seems unfair.

More than anything, people are shocked to see Labour Councillors unanimously vote to award themselves a pay increase of up to 45% for senior roles.

This cannot be justified in a cost-of-living crisis when so many people are worried about paying their bills.

We are calling on Labour Councillors to think again about this and we’re asking people to sign our petition here - asking the senior Labour Councillors to donate their extra pay to local cost-of-living charities.

In the meantime, your local Conservative Councillors Ralu Oteh-Osoka, Robert Rigby, and Paul Swaddle are working hard on local issues that matter most to you. Tackling waste concerns and dealing with road and traffic issues, anti-social behaviour and housing repairs are at the top of our work - as this newsletter shows.

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Budget 2023: The Cost Of Labour

On Wednesday 8 March, Labour councillors forced through an unnecessary plan to increase the pay of their own senior team. Labour Cabinet members will receive a staggering 45% increase (and deputy cabinet members a 15% increase) from levels set by the Conservative administration in 2022.

Ralu Oteh Osoka

Ralu Oteh-Osoka

Councillor for Regent's Park Ward

Ralu describes herself as ‘Child of Westminster’; having been born in St Marys Hospital, Paddington and lived in Maida Vale and Little Venice, W9 for nearly all her life

Robert Rigby

Robert Rigby

Councillor for Regent's Park Ward

Robert Rigby has lived in St John’s Wood for over 30 years with his wife Emiko and has represented Regent’s Park Ward since 2010. He is committed to serving the community ensuring value for money and good services, working tirelessly to retain St John’s Wood unique character and appeal.

Paul Swaddle

Paul Swaddle

Councillor for Regent's Park Ward

Paul lives in St John’s Wood and runs a software company in central London. He has lived in the St John’s Wood and North Marylebone area for 7 years, serving as a one of your local councillors since 2018.

Regent's Park

Regent's Park lies in the north of Westminster. It is bordered to the south east by Marylebone, the west by Church Street and the north by Abbey Road. The borough of Camden is to the east.