The question was asked in last week's Gazette as to why the previous Conservative administration on MHDC did not share news of progress on talks surrounding the new hospital at the time of the May elections.

The answer is quite simple. Discussions linking the provision of land at the depot site to a commitment to the hospital were continuing right up to polling day. Rules on publicity during election periods prevent councils from engaging in publicity that links issues with political groupings or individual members, and any comment would have breached such rules. I also doubt whether making the issue a party political matter would have helped.

The results of the discussions were reported to council shortly after the elections and supported by all members. If the right result is achieved, I am sure that there will be no "sour grapes" from anyone, but I welcome Clive Smith's fine whine (Your Letters, November 7) to be able to put the record straight.

Paul Cumming (MHDC member, Woodbury Ward), Church Lane, Little Witley.