Devon County Council

I know that this may well come as a shock to readers of the echo and especially after my letter printed on January 26 Spend council tax where it is paid but now is the time to say that unlike some people or politicians during a consultation I listen to the arguments. Accordingly,I have to advise Exeter that it is not feasable to be a unitary authority based on current borders.The best solution for Devon will be for both Plymouth and Torbay to lose their unitary authority status and for them to join Exeter and for a Devonwide unitary authority to be created. The events off the coast at Branscombe show why it is necessary. It is strength through unity.Devon needs a voice in the corridors of power and what some people want is to divide and rule. I am not speaking as a politician but as a political person, fundamentally different. Devon County council is far from perfect but with the right people serving as councillors then it will be improved.Many will know that I am sometimes critical of Devon County Council but there is the opportunity to get it right once and for all. There is a fundamental need to make strategic decisions for the benefit of all Devonians but it really does need to be co-ordinated because what our neighbour does has an effect on everybody.I am no jumper on of bandwagons and am reminded of the philosopher who saw a crowd marching in the distance and said I must find out where they are going so that I can lead them.