Opposition councillors have attacked the Conservative administration for cutting money set aside to help people forced to use food banks.

The Harrow Labour Group claims during its time in power over Harrow Borough Council, it set aside £2million in its budget to help those struggling most due to government cuts.

They argue the Conservative administration has since cut that money in their proposed budget, in a move branded unfair by Harrow Labour.

Cllr Margaret Davine, shadow portfolio holder for adult services: “Christmas should be a time when people can enjoy spending time with their family.

“Instead the tragic reality is that many families in Harrow will have to rely on food banks for food during the festive period.

“Whilst our local food bank does fantastic work, it is not acceptable, as some Conservatives have said, that residents of Harrow should have to rely on charity to feed themselves. The Labour Group has higher aspirations for Harrow than this.”

With adult and children’s services particularly overstretched and bills for energy and food going up more and more people are turning to food banks for help.

Harrow Food Bank opened in June this year and provides emergency food to individuals and families in need.

Since opening the food bank, which has been formed by churches in the borough, has been collecting non-perishable food such as tinned foods, pasta sauces, lentils or beans and dried pasta.

It provides three days of emergency food to people referred by one of 12 partner organisations.

The Harrow Times has contacted the Harrow Conservatives and is awaiting a reply.