| With both Labour and the Lib Dems announcing they would work together, and likely seek the informal support of the Conservatives, the SNP looks set to be shut out of power despite having the largest group of councillors for the second election running.
However, SNP leader Ken Guild today announced his group had decided to continue with its bid to lead the council.
“The group meeting last night decided unanimously that we would uphold the promise we made to the electorate and will put forward proposals for a minority administration,” said Mr Guild.
“We are determined to make every possible attempt to form an administration.
“The decision by the Lib Dems is very much against the spirit of proportional representation and a classic case of the tail trying to wag the dog.”
He continued, “We note with interest the fact the Conservative party appear to be drifting slowly towards the same arrangement as four years ago, but the fact they are looking for clarification suggests they are perhaps experiencing some uncertainty.
“The situation reflects badly on democracy in Dundee.
“While canvassing in my ward I came across a lot of people who were irritated at the actions of the Conservatives in keeping Labour in for another four years.
“We will put in our nominations for Lord Provost and Deputy Provost, as planned, on May 24.”
A senior councillor yesterday warned Dundee was in danger of becoming “a democracy-free zone” under the convenership carve-up being contemplated by Labour and the Lib Dems.
Independent Labour councillor Ian Borthwick said the Nationalists’ political opponents seemed prepared to “do any deal to secure office”.
Mr Borthwick said he was not an SNP supporter but the Dundee electorate had in two elections in a row clearly said they wanted the party to have a say in how the city was run.
“Fairness and equity are being sacrificed to self-interest. Labour, the Liberal Democrats and the Tories would best serve the city by taking a step back and thinking again.”
Ironically, Labour councillors elsewhere in Scotland have been railing against the sort of coalition deal on the cards in Dundee.
In West Lothian, a deal was forged between the 13 SNP and three St John’s Hospital campaigners. With the support of a single Tory, John Kerr, which earned him the title of provost, they pushed the 14 Labour councillors into opposition.
Graeme Morrice, Labour group leader, was outraged. He said, “We did not get a kicking. Mr Salmond said the SNP as the largest party has the moral right to govern. If it is good enough for Holyrood, it is good enough for us. The people of West Lothian didn’t want the SNP.” |
