THE Labour Group on Swindon Council has announced a restructuring of its shadow cabinet.

Leader Coun Kevin Small (Western) said: "We have seen little or no improvement in Social Services since the Conservatives took office and believe the present administrative set-up can no longer cope with the increasing demands that the service imposes both on officers and lead members.

"In view of this, and pending the implementations of the Government's Every Child Matters White Paper, the shadow cabinet changes are a proactive measure to meet such challenges."

The main changes are in the areas covered by Social Services.

Instead of having a single lead member addressing all issues, specialisation has been introduced.

Coun Maureen Dilley (Covingham and Nythe) tackles children and family services, while former leader Coun Maurice Fanning (Gorse Hill and Pinehurst) takes on adult services.

The shadow cabinet is an elected body within the Labour group. It has nine members, including the leader and deputy leader.