British Prime Minister Mr Tony Blair today confirmed that local elections due to take place on May 3rd would be postponed until June 7th to allow the government to concentrate on the foot-and-mouth crisis.
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British Prime Minister Mr Tony Blair
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Explaining his decision to postpone the local elections, Mr Blair said he wanted to end the uncertainty for the sake of the tourist industry and the broader economy.
Also, there was the need for national and some local politicians to be "focused on the fight against foot-and-mouth disease, as we put in place the machinery necessary to deal with any eventuality," he said.
Thirdly, there was "the feelings and sensitivities of the people in the communities most affected".
British Home Secretary Mr Jack Straw will table emergency legislation in parliament to enact the delay.
Conservative leader Mr William Hague said he accepts the postponement of the local elections but is against setting a new date for them "until the foot-and-mouth crisis is dealt with".
PA