Locally, in both Ealing and Hounslow even since at school, there were some very good local councillors irrespective of political party.Always accessible, always communicative and always positive .Never afraid to stand up and put another view or concern to their own and stick with it.They all had one thing in common, a strong sense of Civic Pride and duty to their electorate and and far less tied to their party diktatThat's as individuals.Collectively:Not having ward events, selective communication, that's all wrong.The real failing in my view, and most noticeable after several years now, is how very obviously flawed the Cabinet system has become where even ordinary Councillors have become ostracised from the cabinet hierarchy if they dare to disagree or not comply entirely with the cabinets closed ranks.Worse still, is the complete lack of access and communication to residents.In fact utter contempt for all but those who sing from the same hymn book.That is inexcusable and personally feel that none of those councillors are fit to hold office and ought to be dismissed. And hopefuls should be mindful of duty to all residents is what they are there for.Some and I will use one example, local to where my business is located in Walpole Ward, are completely arrogant , non communicative and this echoes from all the local people we have contact with. Similarly with those from neighbouring wards.They all seem scared of others in charge of portfolios. And one or two clearly lean on others less inclined to tow the party line.Sadly, it is a strange breed of misfits and ambition fuelled that would even consider being involved in local politics so the choice and politicians of today are in the main very poor with very few exceptions. It has allowed morally corrupt to use and abuse their positions with no comeback. It's reflected in Govt as well and not isolated to any one party.In Ealing, it is none.What is really needed is an independent body to oversee and monitor performance and failings that residents and council tax payers can contact and this board need teeth to deal with such.Ironically that's supposed to be part of a Councillors duties towards failing executives but it's now a closed club.
Raymond Havelock ● 66d