THE leader of Essex County Council has said the Government has "taken a leaf out of our book" with its announcement today of measures to tackle the deficit - and warned the authority will make further cuts.

It comes after chancellor George Osborne this morning revealed plans to reduce the funding to local councils by £1billion nationwide.

Leader Cllr Peter Martin said: “I welcome the announcement today from the chancellor as the first stage in bringing spending under control and tackling the budget deficit that we are facing.

“I also welcome the clear commitment that will see a reduction in the number and influence of non-elected bodies and other quangos. We will campaign vigorously to ensure that, where possible and practical, these powers are returned to local government.

“The package of measures announced today will of course pose challenges to our county. Essex is no different and will be expected to contribute its share of savings and budget reductions."

He added: “We of course welcome efforts that will place the emphasis on front-line services whilst reducing duplication, waste and bureaucracy in back-office areas. This is the approach that Essex County Council has been embarked upon for the last few years so in a sense the government is taking a leaf out of our book."

Last week it was revealed Essex County Council was considering getting rid of the equivalent of 85 full-time jobs in order to save money.