I'D like to voice my concern, as an individual and to raise concerns from the residents of Okehampton to the recent announcement of reductions to public spending and revenue generating measures by our local councils.

Firstly, this manifested itself as a survey from West Devon Borough Council asking the public for help by suggesting where they think the council should make cuts in services. This is advertised as a public consultation under the banner 'Tough Choices' and gives us the chance to 'take on the role of Chancellor of the Exchequer for a few moments'.

Every line of enquiry I have asked on why these cuts to services are needed, I am told savings are required by Central Government under the current financial climate.

It is my understanding that the 'current financial climate' was caused by unsound fiscal legislation leading to the near collapse of the banking system. Bad legislation compounded by poor banking practice and greed of the bankers. Yet despite being bailed out by public money, many of these banks still award themselves vast bonuses and still will not invest in the manufacturing industries vital for the recovery of the country.

Any remonstration about their methods and use of public money falls on deaf ears. These debts have now been passed on down, in my opinion unfairly, to the general population. And, seemingly, the onus is put on us to decide where the cuts are to be made. That really is adding insult to injury.

Secondly, on a very local scale, the town council, is in the process of  revitalising the economy and prosperity of the town with its Destination Okehampton initiative.

But this took a knock at last Monday week's town council meeting where a proposal from representatives of Devon County Council to install at least ten parking meters within the town was discussed.

Although this was described as a 'consultation' with the townsfolk it became very evident that the scheme would go ahead regardless of public opinion. In Government speak 'consultation' means 'we are telling you what is going to happen' — not 'we will let you decide'. Whatever happened to democracy?

On closer questioning it appears the cost of installation and maintenance of these new parking restrictions will be far greater than the revenue gained. They will only pay for themselves in the very long run.

So we have to ask what is the purpose of these machines? It can only be the thin end of the wedge. Once installed, the parking fees can be changed in the future. In my experience this always means up!

There was no acknowledgment of the disruption and displacement of vehicles this would cause. Nor the effect it would have on the trade in the town.

At a time when we are trying to increase trade and profitability, which means the Government would benefit from the increase in tax revenue, the local authorities appear to have little understanding, or care, for proper management and local economy. In fact, 'management' is the key factor.

The whole of this recession can be attributed to poor management. And now it's down to us to pay for those managers' failings. I can only hope that more capable and experienced managers will be replacing those who have let us down.

Cllr Paul Vachon

Okehampton