Members of Brighton and Hove City Council failed to set a budget last night. Deadlock occurred after the opposition members united to block the ruling Green administration's call for a 4.75% council tax increase, which would trigger a local referendum. The budget was adjourned at 10.30pm by 34 votes to 16 following a six-hour meeting. A Green Party spokesman said: ‘We recognise and appreciate that there were productive negotiations in the adjournment this evening, but they weren't enough. ‘We believe the people of the city should have their say in whether to help protect social care services with a referendum. ‘Green councillors will not let a budget be imposed on this city by the Government so we are committed to working with all parties to agree the best budget possible for our residents.' The Labour group had proposed an alternative budget, with a 2% council tax rise. Labour group leader, Cllr Warren Morgan, said the city ‘deserved better'. ‘Councillors have a duty to set a budget,' he said on Twitter. ‘As it stands neither Greens or Tories prepared to compromise.'