Constituents needs courteous and direct attention

Published: 9:48 AM September 22, 2008 Updated: 10:38 AM February 20, 2021

I was a Camden Councillor in 1975, when I had the good fortune to be offered a job in Singapore. Some colleagues suggested I should not resign. There would have to be a by-election, which would cost money, and the Labour Party might lose it. I did resign

I was a Camden Councillor in 1975, when I had the good fortune to be offered a job in Singapore. Some colleagues suggested I should not resign. There would have to be a by-election, which would cost money, and the Labour Party might lose it.

I did resign. I have never regretted the decision, even though we did indeed lose the by-election.

The idea that Lib Dem councillor Philip Thompson could conduct his casework from Arizona was totally ridiculous. Kentish Town constituents do not just consist of email-savvy professionals.

There are vulnerable people who need and deserve courteous and direct attention. This can only be given face to face.

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When it comes to the council's role as helping those in need, the Lib Dems just don't get it. Whether it is anti-social behaviour or positive efforts to deal with racism (the brilliant Camden United football team, for instance) the Lib Dems are either wishy-washy or just plain wrong.

Cllr Thompson should count his blessings and get on with his studies in the American desert, having resigned his seat in Kentish Town.