CONSERVATIVE councils across the country continue to demonstrate to local communities that the Conservatives are the best party for local government.

We are proud of our achievements in local government and it is fact that Conservative councils deliver lower council tax bills and provide better public services.

Research recently compiled by the independent Audit Commission shows that local residents are more satisfied with council services in Conservative local authorities than in councils controlled by other parties.

The recent Comprehensive Performance Assessment of councils across England also revealed on average Conservative councils had a higher overall service score and a better performance rating. More Conservative-run councils were judged to be "excellent" than Labour or Liberal Democrat councils.

Yet Conservative councils still charge lower council taxes. In 2002-03, Conservative councils on average charged £135 a year less on Band D bills than Labour councils, and £159 a year less than Liberal Democrat councils.

Andy Morgan

(Councillor Hulton

Park Ward)