THE leader of Southampton City Council has vowed to "offer value for money" as she announced her new cabinet. 

Cllr Satvir Kaur remains as leader of the Labour Group after securing 35 seats at the election this month, reducing the Conservative group to just nine seats. 

Speaking at the Annual General Meeting on Thursday - the first council meeting since the election - Cllr Kaur revealed her cabinet.

Amid ongoing financial difficulties at the authority, she said the administration would "ensure that every pound the council spends works for local people". 

She said the council will "offer value for money while focusing on growth and jobs". 

It comes at a time when the authority's external auditors have urged the council to draw up cost-saving plans. The Tory opposition has accused the administration's finance lead - Cllr Steve Leggett - of dodging tough questions over its "precarious" finances.

He has retained his role at the council, it emerged today.

READ MORE: Southampton City Council confirms election date for delayed election

Cllr Kaur said: "From the thousands of conversations we had with residents on their doorsteps, we know that many are concerned with national issues, like the cost of living crisis, which are impacting us locally. 

"Despite the challenges, we know that people across Southampton still remain hugely ambitious for themselves, their families and our great city.

"We look forward to working with you and our partners to take Southampton forwards, and create a place to be proud of – a family city, that is safer, greener, and more affordable for everyone."

Cllr Kaur also thanked the people of Southampton who "gave their overwhelming trust and confidence in the Labour administration".

The cabinet roles are: 

  • Leader - Councillor Satvir Kaur
  • Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adults, Housing and Health – Councillor Lorna Fielker
  • Cabinet Member for Finance and Change – Councillor Steve Leggett
  • Cabinet Member for Economic Development – Councillor Sarah Bogle
  • Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport – Councillor Eamonn Keogh
  • Cabinet Member for Children and Learning – Councillor Alexander Winning
  • Cabinet Member for Communities and Leisure – Councillor Toqeer Kataria