Sir,

I have no problems with local councillors, even parish councillors being Independent or allied to National Parties (see Tenby Observer, July 2).

However, it could be argued that prospective candidates who publicise the fact that they are a member of a particular political party, rather than allegedly being Independent, could be said to be more, or certainly equally, courageous.

Why? It can be very costly, politically, if nationally a political party is under attack. For example: the current public's perceptions and strong views about the Labour Party, in relation to Iraq, and the recent decision of the Welsh Assembly's First Minister to hand a cheque to a winning golfer rather visit France to honour those who died during the D-Day landings is a case in point. It cost Labour a lot of votes.

Having said that, local Labour candidates faced the electorate and did not choose to hide behind the banner of being Independent; at least what you see is what you get. And so too, Plaid Cymru, Conservative, Liberal Democrats and other political parties. Also, how do Independent councillors vote in National Elections? Are they 'value free?' Is anyone value free for that matter? Political, racial, religious, social views and greed influence us all.

No, I do not want to know how an Independent councillor votes in a General Election. As the late Brian Redhead said to a Conservative politician, who accused Brian Redhead of voting Labour, said: "What happens between me and the ballot box is my business."

I know a number of Labour, Liberal Democratic and Plaid Cymru local councillors who are aware that going out to the local electorate under their respective political banners could cost them votes (it might also of course win them votes!); nevertheless they choose to be honest and up front. I also know a number of Independent councillors who are very honest and up front.

As for the allegation that 'all but two Independent councillors have formed an Independent Group' perhaps if we had proportional representation (PR) locally and nationally, we might eliminate the worst in local councillors, courageous or otherwise. But then, that might be too democratic!

Michael Doyle,

Bracken Lea,

Penally.