Libraries minister promises to act if councils cannot justify cuts

Addressing the inaugural meeting of the All Parliamentary Group for Libraries, Rob Wilson said ‘robust evidence’ must be provided before budgets are hit

Local authorities will face government action if they cannot justify library cuts, libraries minister Rob Wilson told librarians, peers and MPs at a packed meeting in the House of Lords to mark the launch of the All Parliamentary Group for Libraries (APPG).

In his strongest statement yet, Wilson said: “Councils really need to make these decisions based on robust evidence rather than being ad hoc and reactive.” He added: “I also expect councils to consider a full range of funding and delivery options before making significant cuts.”

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