A WORCESTERSHIRE MP has written to the Deputy Prime Minister for reassurance that the county will be better funded.

Conservative Peter Luff, who represents Mid-Worcestershire, congratulated John Prescott on his new responsibilities for local government, but wants to make sure local government finance is reformed.

"There is much speculation that the complete change of responsibilities for local government in the reshuffle could mean a delay in giving Worcestershire the fairer deal it so desperately needs," said Mr Luff.

"I am not prepared to see the county once again forced to increase council tax by many times the rate of inflation, just to make good the shortfall in cash from the Government.

In his letter, Mr Luff told Mr Prescott that Worcestershire County Council was at, or near the bottom of, almost every funding table.

Consequences

"The consequences have been very serious for the most vulnerable people in the county, including schoolchildren, the elderly, those with learning disabilities and children at risk," he wrote.

"I look forward to your confirmation that Worcestershire will receive a fairer share of national finds for these essential public services, starting next year."