Essex County Council abolition urged by MP Bob Russell

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An MP has called for one of England's largest local authorities to be abolished.

Liberal Democrat MP for Colchester Sir Bob Russell told the Commons Essex County Council should be replaced with unitary authorities.

The Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said there were no plans to scrap the the Conservative-run council.

The county council declined to respond to Sir Bob's comments, made in parliament.

The Conservative MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock Steve Metcalfe praised the work of the council.

He said the council, which has an annual budget of more than £2bn, played an important role in supporting business growth in the council.