While I can understand Bexley Conservatives are possibly bored in opposition under the new cabinet system, do we really have to have letters from two of them (News Shopper, June 19)?

Ex-councillor Cheryl Potter refers to Labour's extra allowances. It should be remembered it was the last Conservative cabinet which supported a 40 per cent increase in allowances to members.

If people are prepared to dedicate their time to running a local authority, they should be properly remunerated for it.

The other letter writer, Councillor Sharon Massey, appears already to be trying to score points off the new Labour council, even before it has its feet under the table.

Is it just possible some of Bexley's Conservatives could consider working with Labour now and then?

During the election, many residents wanted consensus from their elected representatives. Cllr Massey should know no one party has a monopoly of good ideas not even the Conservative Party.

The new administration has some first-class and experienced councillors. Perhaps Cllr Massey should give them a chance to put their policies into effect, and even consider supporting some of them. After all, the people of Bexley are the ones who will benefit from a united council working together, even if it means Cllr Massey has fewer reasons for writing to the press.

I appreciate her old allowances have dried up. Perhaps she could consider doing so as well.

Graham R Holland

Lamorbey Close

Sidcup

July 17, 2002 16:00