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02
Sept 2022
Ripon MP warned councils are facing ‘enormous’ costs as inflation rises
Ripon MP Julian Smith has been warned councils are facing “enormous” costs as rising inflation stretches budgets for key services and major projects.
Mr Smith told councillors that local government reorganisation and devolution in North Yorkshire would bring “limitless opportunities” to the area.
However, he was urged to pressure Westminster to provide urgent support for local authorities as “the direction of travel is undoubtedly going to be one of austerity”.
That warning was from Cllr Simon Myers, executive member for growth, culture, leisure, sport and housing at North Yorkshire County Council, who said:
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Mr Smith responded to say the rising costs for councils, households and businesses was “increasingly concerning” and would be the “key issue” for the new Prime Minister set to be announced on Monday.
He added he was “confident” that whoever is appointed – either Liz Truss or Rishi Sunak – would announce financial support “very quickly”.
Mr Smith said:
Ahead of further rises in inflation and energy costs in autumn, Mr Smith said the situation facing businesses was of particular concern for the Skipton and Ripon economy which is propped up on small enterprise.
He added he had already been contacted by several firms which are “really worried” about the months ahead.
Mr Smith told today’s meeting of the Skipton and Ripon Area Constituency Committee:
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