A COUNCIL leader claims public money is being wasted on an argument between Labour authorities.

One tier of local government in County Durham will be scrapped if the North-East votes in favour of a regional assembly in a referendum.

Voters will be offered a choice between one county-wide authority or three authorities formed by merging the existing seven district councils.

All the district councils except Durham City are backing the three option, while Durham County Council is for the one-council system.

All but one of the councils is Labour controlled.

Both sides of the argument are spending money on publicity to highlight the impending shake-up.

The Liberal Democrat leader of Durham City, Councillor Sue Pitts, said: "It is unacceptable that taxpayer's money is being spent to further an argument between Labour-run councils.''

"We will not be taking sides. As a Liberal Democrat council, we want the best for the people of Durham and our staff. Getting involved in this row would be detrimental for everyone."

Durham City's own proposals - extending the city to take in places such as Ferryhill and Sacriston - were rejected by the Boundary Committee.

Coun Pitts said the options going forward were not as beneficial for Durham.

"I am appalled that these councils can spend much-needed taxpayers' money on arguing between themselves when it could be spent on improving services.''

Ken Manton, leader of Durham County Council, said: "The county council is not involved in any campaigning.

"We have sought to tell the public what options would be open to them under any local government reorganisation and to explain what our preferred option is and why."