THE EROSION of democracy in Britain is gathering pace, and Bolton's council has certainly no intention of setting a more positive example. Decision making behind closed doors, where neither citizens nor most of their representatives have a say, is now the kind of autocratic rule that is being arbitrarily administered by a "new look" council which hardly consists of new looking councillors.
It is ironic that this same brand of high-handedness, this time employed by the Greater Manchester Magistrates Courts Committee, prevented a Bolton delegation from presenting the town's reasoning and feelings against the likely closure of Bolton Magistrates Courts. Here, too, matters were discussed behind closed doors, arrogantly keeping out the people who are most concerned.
Surely, this is not the hallmark of a sterling democracy, nor is it probably meant to be?
In his letter "A Week in Parliament", Mr David Crausby, MP, warns against the inevitable risks of the Stock Exchange. He is right, of course. But why, then, is his Government so ardently promoting pension schemes that are perilously linked to such "speculative ventures"? The Railtrack demise alone has already dented the pension prospects of thousands, with millions more trapped in similar uncertain "schemes".
Mrs B Stuart
Lord's Stile Lane
Bolton
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article