CASH-STRAPPED Bexley councillors and their three MPs are to see Government ministers in an attempt to get more money.

At the same time as Bexley Council is losing Government grants, it is also taking on more responsibilities which are adding to its bills.

Last year Bexley Council lost £1.2m because of changes in the grant rules and will lose another £1.5m this year.

But the council says the pressure on spending on education and social services is increasing. Bexley could lose £600,000 from its education budget over changes in sixth form funding, while the numbers of children in Bexley schools is rising faster than the average.

In addition, the added responsibility for the over-85s could cost Bexley an extra £1.7.

Council leader Councillor Mike Slaughter and Labour opposition leader Councillor Chris Ball have both written to Stephen Byers, Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions, pressing for a review of Bexley's grant.

Cllr Slaughter said without more cash, Bexley could face real problems implementing the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, the new assessment framework for children and national service requirements for the mentally ill.

There is concern cash demands from the Greater London Authority and the Bexley, Bromley and Greenwich Health Authority could lead to a £8m shortfall.