CLLR John Hanscomb is being over-cautious in warning the Nolan Committee against allowing recent MPs' scandals to ruin the reputation of all politicians.

Those local councils, we believe the vast majority, with nothing to hide, can only benefit from being under the spotlight.

Like Cllr Hanscomb we have the greatest respect for local government, which is usually free of scandal.

But let's not forget Westminster under Dame Shirley Porter, where corrupt practices were uncovered.

Local government should be seen to be fair and open. If the Nolan Committee by its investigations furthers those concepts, that is all to the good.

Far from being tarred with the same sleazy brush as some Westminster politicians, our local representatives could serve as good examples for MPs.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.