Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has launched a scathing attack on the government over its handling of Birmingham City Council's financial crisis, warning that vital services are at risk without immediate intervention.
Speaking at a rally organised by Unite the Union, Corbyn accused ministers of "abandoning" local communities as the council faces severe budget cuts following its effective bankruptcy declaration last year.
Council in Crisis
Birmingham City Council, Europe's largest local authority, issued a Section 114 notice in September 2023 after being unable to balance its budget. The council now faces £300 million in cuts over two years, potentially affecting libraries, cultural projects and youth services.
"What we're seeing in Birmingham is the direct consequence of 14 years of Conservative austerity," Corbyn told supporters. "When you slash local government funding year after year, this is the inevitable result."
Union Backing
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham joined Corbyn in condemning the government's approach, stating: "This isn't about financial mismanagement - it's about political choices. The Tories have chosen to punish Birmingham for their own failures."
The union has pledged support for council workers facing potential job losses and service users affected by the cuts.
Government Response
While ministers have appointed commissioners to oversee the council's recovery, critics argue this does little to address the systemic underfunding of local authorities across England.
Labour councillors in Birmingham have warned that without additional support, the city faces a "decade of decline" with irreversible damage to community infrastructure.
The situation in Birmingham has become a flashpoint in the growing debate about local government finance, with several other councils warning they may soon face similar crises.
