FINCH-SAUNDERS: Councils spend on propaganda falls

Council spend on political propaganda leaflets has fallen – according to a Freedom of Information request by the Welsh Conservatives.

Previously, Shadow Local Government Secretary, Janet Finch-Saunders called for councils to focus resources on frontline services rather than propaganda.

According to the FOI, Welsh councils have spent more than £1 million on council bulletins and newsletters since 2015/16. However, total spend by local authorities in 2017/18 fell to £199,589.83 from £295,075.11 in 2016/17.

The biggest spenders were Caerphilly (£208,000), Swansea (£207,524) and Cardiff (£205,096.93).

In contrast, Conservative-run Monmouthshire council have scrapped such newsletters – with others following suit [see notes to editors].

Janet Finch-Saunders AM said:

“I’m pleased to see councils reducing the amount they spend on town hall propaganda – particularly at a time when many frontline services are being cut.

“I’ve always thought that it was inappropriate to splash the cash on political bumpf, and I hope that many more councils follow the lead of Monmouthshire in scrapping these costly newsletters.

“Instead, councillors should make use of the technology available to them to communicate with constituents for free.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

Individual Freedom of Information Requests available on request, and detailed in Table attached.