I AM writing to express support for Cllr Roy Barrow and to object to the disgraceful treatment of him in respect to the supposed racist remarks made by him.

The remarks were made to another in a private conversation in regard to what I perceive to be a disappointment in obtaining

funds for a carnival. I feel that the question raised still requires an answer.This was not a racist remark. There was nothing in the remark that was insulting or derogatory.

As the Standards Board said, Cllr Barrow did make an explicit reference to the preferential treatment of one racial group over another. But they are grossly in error when they state that such a remark demonstrates a lack of understanding and judgement over what constitutes a racial comment. Such a remark demonstrates that Cllr Barrow perceives that certain persons have a vested interest in perpetrating racial disharmony in pursuing such a base case against a respected councillor for making a point.

Where is freedom of speech?

Peter Greenhalgh

Belmont Road

Astley Bridge, Bolton