A council chief has “stood up” for East Sussex – urging a Government minister to ensure the county gets a fair share of funding.

David Elkin, deputy leader of East Sussex County Council, met local government minister Brandon Lewis to discuss funding the local authority receives from central government.

Coun Elkin said the authority has already seen a £31 million reduction in funding since April 2010 and is facing a further £78.5 million reduction over the next three financial years.

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The Tory finance spokesman asked the minister for clarification on why local government had received such deep cuts and for assurances that future funding would allow the council to continue to deliver the services its residents need.

Coun Elkin said: “I was grateful for the opportunity to meet the minister and we enjoyed a constructive discussion. But it was important I was frank with him about the impact funding cuts are having, and will continue to have, on the people of East Sussex.

“Despite our strong track record on innovation and using limited resources effectively, the savings we’re having to make mean that unfortunately an impact on frontline services is unavoidable.

“We totally understand the need to reduce the deficit but savings must be distributed fairly.

However, there is clear evidence that local government has been asked to bear more than its fair share of the burden.”

He added: “This meeting was about standing up for East Sussex and doing everything we can to ensure the county gets a fair deal, now and in the future.”