Southwark Council spent £10,000 on a Tate Modern event with £2,000 for food and drink, sparking criticism for wasteful spending.
Council leader Kieron Williams came, and Deputy leader Jasmine Ali also attended. An FOI request revealed the event costs. Promotional materials cost nearly £4,000 and food and drinks cost almost £2,000.
The council did not know staff costs, as Tate Modern covered room and equipment costs. Victor Chamberlain, who leads the Liberal Democrat opposition, criticized the spending, calling the event a waste of money.
Chamberlain stated that the event insults residents and suggests the council can’t handle basics. He found the event self-promotional and said “Southwark 2030” is just talk.
The council replied to the criticism, stating that refreshments were a small thank you to attendees from faith groups, businesses, schools, universities, and other organizations. They had invited many organizations to the launch.
A spokesperson said the vision came from the community, with almost 2,000 residents involved in shaping “Southwark 2030″ together. People shared ideas at workshops and events, and the launch brought different people together who attended in their own time.