A VOTE of no confidence motion in the leader of Cornwall Council Alec Robertson has been backed by Callington Cllr Andrew Long.

Cllr Long is one of the six Mebyon Kernow councillors who supported a move from independent councillor Bob Egerton to trigger such a vote.

The motion to remove the leader, over a decision to push ahead with plans to part-privatise key council services despite the council voting against it, will be discussed on October 16.

The privatisation, which the cabinet of the Conservative-Independent-led unitary authority said would be part of a 'strategic partnership', could affect up to 1,000 staff.

Cllr Long said he and other Mebyon Kernow members were opposed to the privatisation of council services, such as benefits, council tax, libraries, one-stop-shops and more.

'Such privatisation does not have the backing of the majority of councillors and is not in the best interests of the people of Cornwall,' he said.

Mr Robertson said the decision was about managing the financial situation and protecting jobs in Cornwall.