Although not wishing people to lose their jobs, I do welcome the cuts being made in Lambeth Council's press and communications budget.

Clearly there are other areas of the council's work which drastically require this money.

Furthermore, I am delighted at the pledge by the new political administration they will avoid "spin and waste" and listen more to residents.

Yet, surely the most cost-effective way for the council to improve its standing with residents is through action on filling the potholes, removing grafiti, tackling the housing benefit choas, etc. A popular council will have no need for PR frills if it delivers the promised improvements in services.

Martin Ball

Knollys Road

Streatham

July 11, 2002 16:30