The ruling Conservatives at Essex County Council have failed to provide effective safeguards for children and have been given a damning 'inadequate' grade by the government's inspectors - not even meeting minimum requirements. The inspectors concluded that the council's recruitment and vetting of staff working with children was poor and that it failed to learn from its mistakes when dealing with complaints.
On his first anniversary as leader, Liberal Democrat Leader Nick Clegg will today set out plans to put Britain on a Green Road out of the Recession, creating jobs and leaving a legacy that will save energy, put money back into people's pockets and fight climate change.
A Lib Dem councillor has attacked the mayor for deferring his urgent motion for a credit crunch plan until February.
PLANS to build a cinema, shopping complex and new homes on William Hunter Way have been sensationally shelved until next year to give councillors more time to consider.
Brentwood's Liberal Democrat councillors have expressed anger and frustration after their motion calling for the Borough Council to publish an action plan highlighting what measures they intend to take to help Brentwood residents and businesses meet the challenges faced by the credit crunch and the ongoing economic crisis was deferred to a meeting in February.
Wednesday night's shock decision by the Leader of Brentwood Council to defer the vote on the William Hunter Way was supported unanimously. However, Brentwood's Liberal Democrat Group has called on him to: