A jobs freeze has been imposed by city councillors in a bid to avert a financial crisis.

Projections show Brighton and Hove Council could be overspent by more than £5 million at the end of the financial year.

Resources cabinet councillor Jackie Lythell told the policy committee vacancies for only the most important jobs would be filled.

There would also have to be cutbacks on supplies and services to reach new financial targets.

Budget review panels are being set up.

Coun Lythell said the main problem was increased spending on housing and social care which in each case was hard to control.