I AM somewhat irate about council cutbacks that are supposed to save money.

The council took advantage of the Labour government’s suspending of the cap on increases over and above inflation.

In 2004-5 the council increased the rates (council tax) by 9.5 per cent, this being 6.5 per cent above inflation, resulting in some £500 per property in extra income above inflation.

Over seven years the council has saved substantially on cutbacks, so it is safe to say it has been very extravagant with its spending or very wasteful.

Where are your Labour principles?

Mr P Richardson, York Road, Haxby, York.