A load of old.....

There may be nine months to go until the County casts its vote, but even a week is a long time in politics. I make no apology for reminding readers that 2009 will be a vital election year. I intend to lead my team in an adventurous campaign that will inspire people to renew their support for our efforts. I intend to prove the huge value of our policies. I will be bringing forward detailed initiatives as time goes on but my over-arching philosophy is to espouse the cause of open government. The flow of information to citizens and stakeholders has increased ten fold since the Liberal Democrats achieved power in the county. And transparent government has been a Liberal Democrat watchword since our 1997 manifesto. Everyone will know how honest and sincere we have been in recent negiotiations to achieve better quality services in the County. Sometimes there is confusion about certain elements. Voices are occasionally raised in criticism that elected representatives have been excluded from the details of such important developments as the creation of SouthWest One. Let me make it absolutely clear. Liberal Democrat Councillors must be open about all things. The Chief Executive and Senior Officers understand this deep-felt need and treat it sensitively This is why they feel it important, sometimes, to protect us from details which might otherwise prove too much of a burden for myself and my team. This is nothing more than an act of human consideration on their part. Such capable officers they are too. Trust is another of my watchwords. More about that at another time.