THE Party Conference season is upon us.

No doubt we shall hear of policy proposals, be given promises and maybe a few ‘visions’ as we have already had locally. Judging by past performance, it would appear our politicians have been issued with cut-price crystal balls and Pinocchio style noses!

But what is the proper function of politicians? The answer is simple; they exist to provide public services, both locally and nationally – those services which it is difficult, if not impossible, for individuals to provide.

It would appear that, in our modern world, this basic principle has been lost (or subverted) as ‘process’ and ’procedure’ have supplanted principled, practical policies designed to benefit all.

Local government should provide services that can be provided locally, such as clean streets, street lighting, car parks, refuse collections, public parks and leisure facilities. Central government should provide services that serve national needs, such as defence, transport and international services that benefit our country. In addition, there are some services that should be provided nationally to ensure a uniform standard throughout the country – health, education and welfare.

Of course we all have to pay for these public services through taxes. Again, the principle should be that local services are paid for out of local taxes and national services are paid for out of national taxation. Unlike private enterprises, governments, both central and local, are in the unique position of being able to set the tax rates without the competition of the market place and the people have no option but to pay up. However, it is the duty of our elected representatives, and public servants, to ensure our taxes are well spent and not wasted.

So one has to ask where the diktat that ‘cuts must be made’ came from? Who decided the budgets that are supposed to be adequate to provide the services?

They have been imposed by our rulers without any debate or approval by the electorate. It is quite possible the public, given the choice, might prefer to pay higher taxes to ensure better public services.

So, please will politicians of all parties, both local and national, stop trying to fool us with fancy phrases and stop spinning us a yarn (spin) but tell us the truth, however unpleasant, and get on with the proper job of providing public services which the public can be proud.

Malcolm Morrison Prospect Hill Swindon