AND people thought that Labour was a democratic party -- not so, according to opposition councillors in Blackburn and Darwen (LET, January 31).

It appears the ruling executive Labour members of the council only include in their reports for discussion in the chamber items that are not contentious and, thus, everything is rosy.

They do not fool other councillors, nor the majority of the public.

By editing council reports in such a way -- some may call it censorship -- they are depriving the public of their democratic right to information about what is happening in their town, throw open to honest debate in the chamber on all issues.

To treat democracy with such contempt beggars belief.

Council leader Bill Taylor states: "Our constitution can be changed if people want it to be."

Well, there have been plenty who have wanted it changed, but it appears no-one is listening.

Why is it surprising to his executive colleague Councillor Hollern that the opposition "run to the Lancashire Evening Telegraph" when their pleas are ignored?

No wonder the proposed implementation of regional assemblies is gaining momentum.

Councillor Kevin Connor (Letters, January 31) said the Liberal Democrats would do away with the executive membership. I would hope that the major opposition party, the Conservatives, the bastion of democracy and integrity, will announce the same.

G ECCLES, North Bank Avenue, Blackburn.