Council scraps China junkets

VISITS to China have been scrapped by Oldham Council after the cost to taxpayers was revealed.

Council leader Jim McMahon has swiped future trips off the agenda in a cost-cutting mission.

The last visit to the Xishan district of China in 2008 caused a stir when former Lib-Dem council leader Howard Sykes was accompanied by four local representatives.

They enjoyed police-escorted tours and formal banquets during the visit that cost a total of £11,594.

Councillor McMahon said: “We are reviewing all council spend in light of the budget pressures following the government settlement.

“Although I acknowledge we must be outward looking we must also strike the right balance between representing Oldham on the international stage with the costs involved.”

Councillor McMahon says the council already invests thousands into a Greater Manchester scheme called MIDAS, aimed at bringing investment.