Brent Labour's democratic revolution seems to have died a quick death. Earlier this week Labour leader Muhammed Butt stated at the Willesden Connects Forum that there was a vigorous debate going amongst the Labour Group about the possibility of holding a referendum about raising Council Tax.
The 100 flowers that Chairman Butt appeared to be allowing to blossom have been struck by a sudden frost, perhaps emanating from on high. An hour ago he tweeted:
Cllr. Muhammed Butt@CllrButtBrent will freeze Council Tax for 5th yr in row from April & no plans to change course. We must do everything possible to ease#CostOfLiving
This is a pity because it did seem to be a bit of a breakthrough in terms of having a rational and broad debate about the important issue of preserving services in the face of savage cuts. Some of his colleagues will be disappointed. The posting about it on Wembley Matters has been widely viewed and shared and it clearly created interest beyond Brent.
I wonder if Muhammed Butt's announcement was arrived at democratically?
I wonder if Muhammed Butt's announcement was arrived at democratically?