COUNCILLORS are calling for the government to explain cuts which have dealt Furness the biggest reduction in spending in the UK. 

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Urgent talks sought over hefty Barrow council cuts

The comments came as senior councillors discussed the latest budget for Barrow Borough Council for this coming year at Barrow Town Hall. 

They were told the council's core spending power - how much a council is able to spend - has been reduced by six per cent for 2016/17. 

This is the highest of any UK local authority, with the next highest reduction anywhere at 5.4 per cent - while some authorities in the country have been given increases. 

It was also highlighted that reduction of core spending of the council between 2016/17 and 2019/20 will be reduced by 15.1 per cent, meaning in that period Barrow will have its spending powers cut by more than£1.6m.

Councillors believe  they have not adequately been told why the cuts to the borough are being made.

Councillor Brendan Sweeney, deputy leader, said cuts have blighted Barrow over the last few years.

He told the meeting on Wednesday: "We need to know why the money for Barrow is being cut.

"This is what I pay in income tax, and that we all pay in income tax. It is in our interests to see the town grow stronger and we are seeing improvements in our schools and jobs coming into our town.

"This is money from our taxes that no longer comes back to Barrow. There has, so far, been no indication as to why these cuts are happening."

Councillor David Roberts, leader of the Conservative opposition on the council, did not contest the budget plan, and echoed the views of Cllr Sweeney in trying to find out why spending powers for the town have been cut.

He said: "I cannot understand why that has occurred. We need to come to some conclusions about this.

"Regardless of our opinions, I think we need to come together as councillors to find out exactly why these cuts are happening in Barrow."

Public consultation on the plans has now been opened and will run until February 18.

The full council will meet on March 1 to consider the consultation process and recommend any amendments if necessary, before agreeing the final budget.