S MCLAREN (Letters, January 18) is correct to say that not many years ago it was the businessman who became a councillor. This was a privilege and also unpaid.

I would say in future all councillors should not be paid; they also should have been born in York.

Readers should be made aware to use YouTube to view council meetings, as they will then have a better idea about who to vote for in the next election.

I would ask all to take the time and view these meetings and see councillors in action. That way they will be able to tell which councillors are a problem to us all. Many are a disgrace.

Mr D Wardell, Malton Road, York.