Wirral’s Labour group appoints ruling cabinet

May 26 2011

WIRRAL’S new Labour leadership has unveiled its decision-making cabinet – including four women among the top 10 jobs in the administration.

Newly-elected leader of the council Steve Foulkes has taken the finance portfolio, with his party deputy, Phil Davies, as cabinet member for regeneration and deputy council leader.

Cllr Foulkes said the cabinet had been "chosen very carefully, based on their experience, interests and expertise".

Ann McLachlan takes over children's services while Anne McArdle, who was only elected to the authority as councillor for Leasowe last year, has been handed one of the most challenging briefs in local government – the social services job.

She said she was "relishing the challenge" of overseeing a department which, as well as traditionally facing significant budgetary pressures, also sees major changes ahead with the transfer of public health responsibilities to councils, as well as the Government’s planned shake-up of the NHS.

She said: "It will be a learning curve for me, as it would be for anyone, as there is a lot happening that is new."

Other appointments include Chris Meaden as the cabinet member for culture, tourism and leisure, George Davies at housing, and former cabinet member for regeneration under the last Labour administration, Jean Stapleton will now take over the community engagement portfolio.

Birkenhead councillor Brian Kenny will be responsible for the environment brief, while the streetscene responsibility, which includes roads and transport, goes to Bidston councillor Harry Smith and corporate resources will be overseen by Seacombe councillor Adrian Jones.