Statement on today’s announcement by new Rotherham Council leader Paul Lakin
Commenting on Councillor Lakin’s announcement today, John Healey MP said:
“I strongly welcome the decision of the Council’s new leader Paul Lakin that he will cut back the size of the council’s cabinet and put a stop on overseas travel to create a new £120,000 fund for the victims of sexual abuse. The victims and survivors of this child sexual exploitation must come first, and Cllr Lakin is making these bold changes to help ensure they get the support they need.
“The new Labour council leader is demonstrating a different way of doing things, and showing the people of Rotherham that the Council understands the gravity of past failings. There is a lot of work to do in implementing in full Alexis Jay’s recommendations, and much to do to rebuild trust in the Council and restore pride to our town. Paul Lakin and the new cabinet will have my full support in doing this.”