Lambeth Life - the most expensive Freebie in the World

11.18.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 22nd Jan 2008

Lambeth Life - claims to be free but costs over £300,000

Lambeth Council's new fortnightly publicity-sheet has been branded "the most expensive freebie in the world" after new figures reveal it costs local Council Tax Payers over £300,000. But the propaganda-sheet declares on its front page that it is "Delivered FREE every fortnight to 136,000 homes and businesses in Lambeth".

Figures exposed after questions by Liberal Democrat Councillors count the cost of the new spin at £16,000 a month in printing and distribution costs and £12,000 for more staff. The council also admits to taking on three new staff members - a junior reporter, a designer and a sales manager - but refuses to admit the costs of these new staff. It could push the reported bill from £204,000 well over £300,000.

"People used to say that there's no such thing as a free lunch," commented Cllr Ashley Lumsden, leader of the Liberal Democrat Group on Lambeth Council. "But Labour councillors have changed that to be 'there's no such thing as free propaganda!'"

"This fake newspaper isn't free at all - it's costing Lambeth Council Tax Payers £300,000 to pay for Labour's spin and lies. Every time residents see this pushed through their letterboxes they should think 'We're paying for this rot!'" added Cllr Lumsden