Labour Games Leave Lib Dems Running Bristol

Liberal Democrats have taken control of Bristol City Council, led by Cllr Barbara Janke, following the resignation of the Council's former Labour Cabinet

Labour stepped down following the success of a Liberal Democrat amendment to the budget, removing funding for Labour's plans to build a mass-burn incinerator in Avonmouth. Shortly after, Labour's leader announced in the Council chamber that her administration could not support such a change, and would therefore resign.

Labour's decision potentially left the city rudderless, jeopardising funding from central government, as well as the credibility of the city at a point when funding is also being allocated at regional level. The Liberal Democrats therefore felt that the most responsible course of action would be to step in and ensure that the City Council has strong and effective leadership over the coming months.

Cllr Janke said: "This is a great privilege. There are a number of outstanding issues that need to be tackled urgently. We are pleased that the budget has been set, and will be seeking to put a Liberal Democrat administration into effect as soon as possible and set some clear priorities."