I WRITE with regard to the continuing fiasco that involves the local government in this city.

I apologise for returning to the matter of Crinkley Bottom, some-thing that by now must elicit groans of 'oh no not that again' from many members of the public. Indeed we saw an article last week from Jan Pacula, asking for that very thing.

This is an understandable but dangerous course of action, for in doing so there is a real danger of local democracy being abused and even possibly stifled.

This may have already come about when we are in the present situation of just four councillors making key decisions due to the withdrawal of support of the Conservative and Lib Dems from the cabinet.

The reasons for their actions have been well documented, as have the actions of council leader Patricia Heath. I fully support Cllr Heath's right to defend herself against statements she feels are damaging to her, but I query her methods. Her recourse to the legal system has had the effect of squashing debate as to her actions.

The more uncharitable members of the public may start to wonder why Cllr Heath and her merry band are so intent on stifling debate while at the same time hanging on to power.

The position of leader has a lot of status and carries certain attractions with it, but there is a huge amount of responsibility as well. The leader is meant to do just that, lead, and to set an example to colleagues and the people who elected her.

Yet, instead of stepping down and fighting to clear her name, she follows a course that further calls her judgement into question.

Sometimes good leaders have to face harsh realities and accept that they must step back for the good of all. Maybe it is time for Cllr Heath to regain some respect by doing that

J R Battersby-Hill, Westminster Road, Morecambe.