In 2023, Birmingham City Council issued a Section 114 notice - effectively declaring itself bankrupt. This triggered devastating cuts to public services, the sale of community assets, and the installation of government commissioners. But new evidence suggests the council may never have been truly bankrupt.

A group of over 30 experts in finance, accounting, and local government have revealed that the council’s financial reserves were materially misstated. Analysis of the council’s audited accounts shows it had £784 million in general fund reserves, not the £677 million deficit it claimed. The equal pay liabilities, originally estimated at £760 million, were significantly overstated. It was also found that there was no budget deficit requiring a sale of assets.

This raises serious questions:

• Was the Section 114 notice based on flawed or unaudited data?
• Were residents misled about the true financial position of the council?
• Why were drastic decisions made - including asset sales and service cuts — before a proper financial assessment?
• Who is accountable for the damage caused to Birmingham’s communities?

An independent inquiry must ensure Birmingham’s mistakes are not repeated as other councils face financial crisis.

We, the undersigned, demand an independent public inquiry into the failings at Birmingham City Council. The people of Birmingham deserve transparency, accountability, and answers. This is not just about financial figures - it’s about trust, governance, and the future of our city.

Sign this petition to call for justice and ensure this never happens again.

Harborne and Quinton Independent Team
Councillor Martin Brooks, Councillor Sam Forsyth and James Cross