Lib Dems Accuse Surrey County Council of Stifling Debate on Key Issues

The Liberal Democrats in Surrey have accused the Conservative administration of Surrey County Council of shutting down meaningful debate on crucial issues affecting vulnerable children during yesterday’s full council meeting.

Two important motions, proposed for cross-party debate, were effectively silenced by the Conservative majority. One motion, put forward by Lib Dem Councillor Liz Townsend (Divisional Member for Cranleigh & Ewhurst), called for greater transparency and accountability in the Council’s handling of decisions for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The second motion, proposed by the Green Party and formally supported by Cllr Townsend, highlighted the need to strengthen early help provision and reflect on the positive legacy of Sure Start Centres, which were cut by the council.

Despite widespread public concern about the Council’s performance on these issues, both motions were blocked from open debate, leaving many councillors frustrated.

Cllr Townsend expressed her deep disappointment with the process, stating:

“Stifling debate on important topics like these makes a mockery of the whole motion process. Full council meetings should provide an opportunity for all members to engage in meaningful public discussions about services that matter to our residents. By refusing to allow these debates, the Conservative administration is undermining trust in the system and removing a vital mechanism for holding those in power to account.

“This is not the first time this tactic has been used and the lack of open debate damages public confidence in local democracy. It seems that open discussions about SEND and family support are being actively discouraged. Nevertheless, Surrey Lib Dems will continue to fight for the voices of families and children with additional needs to be heard.”

Paul Follows, Leader of Surrey Lib Dems (Divisional Member for Godalming South, Milford & Witley), echoed Cllr Townsend’s concerns:

“This is one of the few mechanisms available for the entire council to debate and scrutinise issues of public importance. Referring motions to another committee is simply a tactic to shut down discussion, as we’ve seen in cases like the recent call-in on the London Road Active Travel Scheme.”