PaulRogan

Perhaps it is because of the high media coverage over Gordon's abolition of the 10p tax band that so many people approached me today, raising old but not forgotten frustrations and anger over Councillor's salaries.

The complaints came fast and furious. 40% salary increases! Free laptop computers! Free holidays! And still they don't fill in their time sheets!

I was able to say, about the 43% pay increase, this Councillor at least refused to accept it until the issue went before the electorate and the ballot box in the ‘all-out' election.

I campaigned and voted against Councillors being given free laptops.

I haven't had a holiday, freebee or otherwise in over 6 years, (more fool me).

The English Democrats believe Councillors should not be paid a fixed salary. Community work and activities are the most important duties of a ward Councillor.

I was delivering leaflets in the Field Lane area and decided I must take these views of the man in the street on board.

I have now encapsulated today's popular view into a leaflet: -

English Democrats keep hearing your concerns about Councillors free laptops, 43% pay increases and incomplete time sheets? We hear when you say, ‘when Councillors weren't paid, we seemed to see more of them'. We agree! But did you know your two Rastrick Tory Councillors get nearly £60,000 a year? This excludes ‘freebees' like trips to South Africa. It all comes out of your money? Do you think you get value for money from your Tory Councillors?

Isn't it time for a change from all the old ways?