A NUMBER of your correspondents have raised concerns over the rule which prevents elected members expressing their opinions on subjects that may arise in committees on which they serve.

Since this rule has only recently come to the notice of many of us, it was helpful that Coun Hall explained it in some detail at the most recent meeting of the Haxby and Wigginton ward committee.

Unfortunately, the effect of the rule was to preclude discussion of a planning matter, which was very important to Wigginton residents, because Councillors Hall and Watson are members of planning committees.

At the same meeting there was a presentation by York Open Planning Forum of buildings nominated for inclusion on a local conservation list, among which was Haxby Memorial Hall.

Presumably the same rule prevented Coun Hogg from informing the meeting that a body he chairs, the elected members advisory panel, had already earmarked £200,000 towards demolishing the 19th century hall and building a library on the site.

Clearly this rule, or at least the way it is being applied, is having an adverse effect on local democracy.

Firstly, it is stifling discussion between residents and the members they have elected to represent their views.

Secondly, it directly conflicts with one of the terms of reference that governs the activities of ward committees, namely to "promote the principles and standards of the council's open government policy".

The overall effect gives weight to the opinions of some of your correspondents that this is a very convenient rule indeed if a councillor wishes to avoid commitment or keep sensitive information under wraps.

Surely the council can find a way to implement the rule that leaves councillors free to represent their electorate without endangering the objectivity of committees.

F T Smith,

Ashwood Glade,

Haxby, York.

Updated: 09:34 Wednesday, March 09, 2005