Sir,
I wonder if any of your readers can help, I recently looked up the word 'independent' in my Oxford Dictionary and found the definition 'Not depending on another person for ones opinion'.
I also investigated the Pembrokeshire County Council website to establish the make up of the new council; I was surprised to find that all but two Independent county councillors have formed an Independent Group (listed alongside the Labour Group, Liberal Democrat Group and Plaid Cymru Group).
I find it difficult to equate the two. Are we to assume that many of the new local county councillors, who pledged independence during their campaigns have now joined the same group as were in power before the recent election? Are we to expect more of the same policy making, charging for blue badge holders in county car parks, dumping responsibility for children's playgrounds on community groups, poor social service provision etc etc.?
I'm sure I am worrying unnecessarily and the new Independent Party, sorry Group, will shock us all with new policies, which will have residents, businesses and visitors at heart.
In the meantime, good luck to Clrs. Calver and Stoddart who have the courage of their convictions, as I'm sure they will prove to be truly independent to the benefit of their communities.
The rest of us will have to live in hope.
Phil Baker,
Northover,
Rushy Lake,
Saundersfoot.