The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
I read with interest the comments of the Leader of South Holland District Council in your newspaper regarding democracy and Lincolnshire devolution.
Leaving aside the fact that Gary Porter wields influence as a member of the unelected House of Lords, I disagree with him that the current devolution deal is in the best interests of either democracy or Lincolnshire.
The offer of limited devolution is conditional on Lincolnshire accepting an elected mayor for an area stretching from the Humber to the Wash. Such a position would be impractical, unaccountable and expensive.
As a senior councillor and as a parliamentarian, Lord Porter should be arguing hammer and tongs with the Government that devolution of power and money should not have such ridiculous strings attached.
People living in the county should respond to the consultation by saying no to an elected mayor.
Coun Ashley Baxter (Ind)
Market & West Deeping
