Labour Prospective Parliamentary candidate who introduced free charges for Bristol's museums has struck out at plans to reintroduce museum charges.

Paul Smith introduced free museum entry for all as Chair of Leisure in 1998, a change which saw museum attendance double overnight.

“I am shocked that the council is planning to bring in charges for exhibitions at the museum.  While it might seem reasonable I am worried that this is the thin end of the wedge for reintroducing charges as part of privatising the service.  We have already seen some other councils introducing ‘Ryanair’ services with all but basic council services liable for a charge.  This measure indicates that Bristol is planning to follow suit,” commented Paul.

"Simon Cook has previous with his plans to close Bristol's grade 1 listed central library when he was last in charge of cultural policy.  He clearly has no regard for the history of Bristol or for access to its cultural heritage".

The proposals, revealed by the Bristol Evening Post, are being put forward by Lib Dem Deputy Leader, Simon Cook and will be considered by the Liberal Democrat Cabinet.