INSTEAD of wringing his hands and complaining of "catastrophic" consequences for the fire service, the chairman of the fire authority (Richard Udall) would have done better to have explained its actions.

He could tell us why it is necessary for such a thumping increase in its precept, in contrast to those of authorities everywhere else (which also have to provide reserves, increase in pay etc).

Is it due to under-investment in the past? Is it because he wants his authority to be a premier, deluxe outfit that outshines all others? Is it because appliances cost more to purchase in this area? We don't need to be dazzled by figures.

All of these are management related. Since, apparently warnings of the consequences of a large precept were ignored, it is reasonable to demand that any consequential re-billing costs should fall disproportionately on the management sector of the fire authority.

It then might consider in future how, like the rest of us, it is to live within its means and not continue to issue itself with blank cheques at our expense.

M WHITE, Guarlford Road, Malvern.