Dear Sir
Mrs Tomlin’s letter last week was interesting and her diatribe regarding decisions by Labour behind the scenes reminds me that her own husband was a one term Labour councillor who, according to her,  did as he was told, singing from the same sheet, told which way to vote,  just like a sheep so  she should know.
I was the West Ward Councillor who tabled the item regarding the Lakes at the last Environment Committee and I requested  a detailed report (available from the Council) and deliberately opened up the issue to Council and public alike. Unfortunately instead of supporting us, on the issue of cleaning the lakes, the waters were muddied a little and instead of sticking to the issue the public spokeswoman introduced other issues which made it difficult to arrive at decisive conclusions on that one matter.
Nonetheless I think the officers of the Council took on board all councillors and public concerns and I am sure these will be taken on board. With autumn and winter coming the algae problem should subside for now.
I welcome any public views being expressed on this matter and in general welcome Cllr George Gray’s letter last week  and indeed anyone elses contribution to Lakes issue. No doubt we can look forward to furthering this in a way that serves the public interest and gets things done.
There was no Labour group decision on this, yes the 26 strong Labour Group discusses some  things,  policy and major expenditure and tries to arrive at a consensus on matters of importance. That surely is common sense and Mrs Tomlin’s husband when he was a Labour councillor never once objected to this.
West Park and the Lakes is not a party political issue. Cllr Eddy Adam and Ken Robson, chairman of the Acorn Residents Associaton in particular have suggested a group of like-minded people discuss the Lakes and West Park which I personally would welcome, and all public participation, ideas or comments.
Let’s come up with ideas and get things moving. Incidentally Mrs Tomlin I am no sheep, as well you know, if there is a conflict of interest I will always put public interest before Party or self. I believe most of my fellow Labour Councillors would do likewise.
Cllr Arun M Chandran
Speaking personally