VOLUNTARY groups should not be taunted annually with threats of funding cuts, according to the Liberal Democrats.

Instead, the Lib Dems will propose, funding of the voluntary sector should be ring-fenced and handed over to an external agency to stop political interference.

Nicky Sewell, who is standing for the Lib Dems in the Walcot by-election, suggested the measure.

"It is wrong that the Conservatives are proposing for the fourth year in a row to cut the grants to the voluntary sector in Swindon," she said.

"This is political meddling in its worse form.

"We should all be aware that the £252,000 cut to the voluntary sector grant equals £3.77 for each household's council tax bill this year that's the same price as a bargain pizza in Asda."