THE resignation of James Alexander was to be expected after what many see as his disastrous leadership of City of York Council.

The recent Labour defections and a coup d’etat of cabinet and committee appointments surely signalled the end of his political career in York. He has made too many misjudgements.

As leader he was responsible in setting the tone for the council and its relationship to citizens – and he failed on both counts. You can’t operate in secrecy with an elite inner circle and expect to take the city with you.

Having observed the careers into national politics of (then) councillors David Blunket (Labour), Eric Pickles (Conservative) and Phil (now Lord) Willis (Lib-Dems), they were not surrounded by the endless controversy that Cllr Alexander attracted, so I fail to see him being selected as an MP.

York is at a critical crossroads and we need solid cross-party governance with probity and integrity. York must have a meaningful legacy of prosperity for the next generation with new industry attracting well-paid secure employment, the northern ring road dual carriageway and a considerate local plan.

Mr Alexander will have to work miracles to help Ed Miliband as he too is in serious trouble with only six months to go.

Keith Massey, Bishopthorpe, York.