COUNCILLOR David Barlow's description of the St Barnabas councillors varies more than slightly from the experience of numerous of my friends and acquaintances.
Rarely do I see them visiting the pubs in the ward and mingle with us "hoi polloi" electorate.
Upon his/her election to the council, every city councillor is credited with an allowance of £1,370 intended to cover expenses like postage, telephone, travel to attend to and resolve, as far as possible, any problems.
Some time ago, I was in dispute with certain council officials. I invoked the aid of Councillors Barlow and Margaret Wills, both of whom had successively been leaders of the controlling Labour Group. Mrs Wills, although totally in sympathy with me, admitted she was unable to do anything to assist me.
Coun Barlow agreed to a compromise with the officers on my behalf. The terms of the compromise were totally unacceptable to me. They amounted nearly to unconditional surrender. He asserted he had "got me a good deal" and would not assist any further. I didn't bother invoking the aid of Coun Adrian Gregson.
I was at the time recuperating in Warwickshire, having broken my back. Coun Barlow, despite receipt of an allowance, refused to return my phone calls because, as he said "these are long-distance calls". I challenge his claim to be "hardworking".
FRANCIS REYNOLDS,
Gillam Street, Worcester.
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