I SHARE the delight of council leader Cliff Morris at being listened to by the Government.

His representations to James Purnell, the Secretary of State for Works and Pensions, have no doubt helped towards the welcome decision to award the contract for the Post Office Card Account service to the Post Office.

I hope Cllr Morris will show the same independence and clarity of thought as his government colleague in Works and Pensions, and help to move Bolton Council away from a decision that would undermine education and social inclusion in Bolton for a generation.

Vote “No” to the academy plans for Withins and Hayward schools please, Cllr Morris, and encourage your colleagues to do likewise.

Tom Hanley, Bolton