by Sheffield Lib Dems on October 7, 2013 in News

Campaigners fighting to save libraries and sports facilities have reacted angrily to news that the Council is increasing the amount it spends on food and drinks for events.

New figures, obtained by opposition councillors, show that Sheffield City Council will actually increase the amount it spends on hospitality by 25% this year.

In 2012/13 the Council spent almost £40,000 on hospitality but in the just the first six months of the current financial year the Council has splashed over £25,000, adding up to a potential £50,000 over twelve months.

The figures have been criticised by opposition Liberal Democrat councillors who are campaigning to protect sixteen libraries threatened with closure.

Cllr Andrew Sangar, Sheffield Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Finance, said:

“At time when every penny counts, it’s difficult to understand why Labour councillors are increasing the amount they spend on coffee and croissants.

“Labour politicians claim they’ve been forced to close libraries but it’s clear that the same attitude doesn’t apply when it comes to tightening their own belts. Day by day it’s becoming clearer that Labour cannot be trusted to manage the city’s finances.”