LAST night (Thursday, March 15) I attended the first "Democracy Road Show" at Highfield School. I was one of only eleven people who attended, obviously due to the lack of publicity.

I wonder what the thinking was behind the decision to advertise in the newspaper only a few hours before the meeting? Far be it for me to be cynical about our Labour councillors, but maybe they forgot about the meeting because not one councillor was present, only paid officials who, of course, couldn't possibly comment on anything political. Maybe they don't think it an important enough

topic.

There are three options forced upon us by the Labour Government, -- 1 Mayor and Cabinet, 2 Leader and Cabinet, 3 Mayor and council manager. At best, out of 46 councillors, nine will decide policy. At worst, one will decide.

Democracy? What democracy? When 46 councillors are elected, 46 councillors should have the final say, not a Labour Government dictating to us.

We need a referendum and for this we need 5,610 signatures. Let's show these politicians what people power is all about. For more information contact me at the address below or ring me on 07949 235101. Local government is no place for party politics.

Ken Coups,

Blackpool First Alliance,

29 Albert Road,

Blackpool.