Joint press statement by Camden Liberal Democrats and Camden Conservatives

5.30.15pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 16th May 2006

Cllr Keith Moffitt, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, and Cllr Andrew Marshall, Leader of the Conservative Group, have today (Tuesday 16 May) announced that they will be opening discussions to explore the scope for a joint Liberal Democrat-Conservative administration.

Cllr Moffitt said: "Under Camden's constitution, the Liberal Democrats, as the party with the largest number of seats following the election on 4 May, are required to form the executive, and we are committed to providing strong leadership for this process. In the interests of decision-making stability, which is vital for the residents of the borough, my group last night agreed, following the rejection by the Labour party of the offer of a three-way administration, to enter into discussions with the Conservative group on the shape of a possible joint administration."

Cllr Marshall said: "The Conservative Group has decided that in the situation that now exists, with no party commanding a majority of seats on the council, the best way forward for Camden is a joint Liberal Democrat-Conservative administration with a commitment to genuine partnership. We believe that the residents of Camden will welcome a sensible agreement that really benefits our borough and achieves the change that the people of Camden are looking for".

A further announcement on the progress of the discussions will be made as soon as possible.