Grass Roots Democracy - TrustNews July 1991
From Pamela Peskett
Former Mayor of Winchester
Dear Sir
Many people who read my article on Grass Roots Democracy in your February issue have told me that they share my views. The citizens of Winchester are deprived of a forum in which to voice their opinion on planning, traffic and other matters normally considered by a parish or town council.
This April the Department of the Environment issued a Consultation Paper on "The Structure of Local Government in England" to which comments were invited by 14 June.
Amongst other important issues such as the abolition of County Councils, the Paper looks at the role of Parish Councils. It states that "operating at a very local level, parish and town councils play a useful role within communities in providing local facilities and representing local opinion. The Government believe that there may be a case for considering whether to enhance the role of parish councils, especially where a new unitary authority covers a wide area, and would welcome views".
Perhaps Winchester will get its "town council" after all.
Pamela Peskettt
Winchester
From John Moodie
Principal: Central Hampshire Community Education Institute.
Dear Sir
I write to say how interested I was to read the article by our former Mayor, Pamela Peskett, in the Trust's recent newsletter. I have felt for some time that people in urban areas are not nearly so well represented as those living in rural areas.
This is a timely raising of this issue, when there is considerable debate on the efficiency and effectiveness of our local government institutions. I hope the Trust will encourage and assist the debate. Such a possibility has prompted me to apply for membership, and I have enclosed a completed application form and cheque.
John Moodie
Winchester