Not once, not twice, but three times the Conservative group failed to grasp the olive branch offered to them at last week’s full council meeting, and to revisit the library proposals and inject some positivity and fairness in the provision of a decent and universal library service.

Despite the last-minute public calls to scrap the consultation from our local MPs, and despite the personal support for their own libraries, the Tory councillors declined to put their support into writing by defeating the extraordinary motion. And when pressed again to support a cross-party committee, a free pass to build a library service fit for the needs of today, they declined. Compassionate conservatism has clearly faded into history.

Lastly, the Liberal Democrat alternative budget, which identified funds that could be used to fill the library shortfall, was voted down. Any alternative budget from Labour was conspicuous in its absence.

I have been overwhelmed by the support from people across the political divide for the Save Barnet Libraries campaign. It is down to the tireless campaigning of library lovers that has made this happen. More than 9, 000 signatures clearly demonstrates the public resentment to the cutbacks in the libraries; resentment that is only fueled when the decision-makers don’t listen. We may be disappointed now, but we will be stronger next time. Let’s keep campaigning to keep our libraries open.

Alasdair Hill

Liberal Democrat prospective parliamentary candidate for Hendon