Lifeline to local economy

Figures have revealed Hull City Council's vital role in helping the local economy through the recession.
The council has spent approximately £152 million on goods and services from businesses within the Hull boundary in the last year
That's 46 per cent of third party expenditure, compared to a national average among local authorities of 26 per cent
"The fact that the council is spending nearly twice as much with local businesses than other unitary authorities is good news for the Hull area," said leader of Hull City Council, Cllr Carl Minns
"It's even more important during this continuing international economic crisis that we give our support on a local level
"The council will endeavour, where it is appropriate and possible, to use local businesses in Hull and the East Riding, as they are vital to keeping the local economy alive and creating a positive future for the area."
Over the same period, Hull City Council spent more than £6 million on supplies and services from businesses in the East Riding
Earlier this year, the council adopted a social clause policy which states that, where appropriate, its contractors should use local labour, products and services
The council also staged a 'Meet the Buyer' event last month at which local companies could meet members of public sector buying teams and gain tips on putting together tenders.