Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch instructs lawyers to challenge government over local funding cuts

She told the BBC's Newsnight the proposed 94% council tax rise in Wandsworth was "outrageous" but that "they're not doing it because they want to".

She said she had "instructed lawyers" to see if a government funding cut, which the council has blamed for the increase, can be blocked.

She said: “What it looks like Labour is doing is taking money from areas that don’t vote Labour and giving it to places that do vote Labour. And I think that’s completely wrong. So we’re talking to lawyers.”

According to the BBC, Wandsworth has long had one of the lowest council tax rates in the country, with an average Band D property currently paying just over £1,000, compared to above £2,000 in an increasing number of London boroughs.

Earlier this month, three London councils, including Wandsworth, signalled their intention to submit proposals under the Sustainable Communities Act, calling on the Government to reconsider its proposed Fair Funding reforms.

Wandsworth, Kensington and Chelsea, and Westminster Councils estimate that the proposed Fair Funding reforms would result in a combined loss of £292 million in funding.

They warn that this reduction would have “significant consequences” for their communities, putting pressure on essential local services and causing economic, social and environmental harm.

Cllr Robert Morritt, Leader of Wandsworth Council, said: “Wandsworth residents deserve a fairer deal. Our core government funding has been cut by 40% while demand for vital local services continues to grow.

"Through our intended proposal under the Sustainable Communities Act we are arguing for a system that gives communities a stronger voice and councils the resources they need to deliver for residents.”

Lottie Winson