THERE has been several worrying contributions in the letters recently from otherwise sensible correspondents, not least Richard Anderson (Letters, February 23).

Councillors, in particular Lib Dems, have been notable in pushing their undemocratic views on the ‘One Oxfordshire’ nonsense. Yes, the present system with a good city and a bad county is not helping, but a return to two (or three) unitary authorities wouldn’t necessarily be better.

Since the 1970s, government has attacked and cut local authorities.

The personal attack on John Tanner is unwarranted. His recent outburst regarding homeless people was shocking, despite the city council’s relatively good record on housing, not to mention the environment.

In our undemocratic, unaccountable society, professional politicians are under extreme pressure, but their jobs are the ones that need to change. There is nothing inevitable regarding the imposition of a super-council and is not the way to end (council) complacency.

The county elections in May and signing e-petitions may have some influence but actively supporting the Unison/Trade Council campaign to defend the city will be more useful, and will strengthen local communities and democracy.

ANDY GIBBONS

Unite Community

Oxford