Tory council leader Mike Bawden is being criticised by the Labour opposition for plans which might see this year's council tax rise kept to a minimum.

The opposition says the measure could lead to cuts in services.

That is as may be, but the critics would do well to remember that the Government itself which is of the same party has threatened to force Swindon to keep the tax down.

Perhaps it would be better for all concerned if councillors of all parties simply got together to devise the best possible solution.