IT has been decided to arrange another informal get-together, probably at the Knavesmire Hotel as before, for anyone with any interest in the South Bank area from the 1950s onwards.

While the previous get-together was not a particularly resounding success, we feel another one is worth a try.

In any event, if there is any interest in possible times, dates, venues or indeed any interest at all, get in touch via phone or text on 07506 478 116, or by emailing mikebarnes4@hotmail.co.uk

Mike Barnes, Boroughbridge Road, York

 

A welcome U-turn by Julian Sturdy MP, last week (The Press, August 15).

He has moved from his apparently anti-Leeds/West Yorkshire stance on devolution to “It does not matter how investment is badged – whether it’s Northern powerhouse or Yorkshire powerhouse – we have to make sure it is delivered.”

Progress.

Nick Emmerson, Dringhouses, York

 

Those of us on twitter will not have missed Labour’s frantic comments about the new council administration’s consultation on devolution options for York.

According to Labour supporters, residents are to look no further than Labour’s deal with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, because, according to former Labour deputy leader Tracey Simpson-Laing, York has “nothing in common” with our neighbours in North or East Yorkshire. This is proof positive that Labour have always had a one-dimensional view of where York’s future interests may lie, without giving residents any chance to have their say.

While Labour wasn’t looking the whole devolution debate has opened up, which will result in real choices for York and the opportunity for York to play a central role in any devolution deal. The West Yorkshire Combined Authority is indeed one direction which York may explore, but there are others and the new Conservative/Lib Dem administration has opened up the process to give residents an opportunity to learn about and to comment on the whole process. Labour preferred a stealth agreement with no added sunlight – it’s easy to guess which approach York residents prefer.

Cllr Paul Doughty, Conservative, Strensall Ward, Bramble Hedge House, West End, Strensall

 

Well, something good has come out of the £8 million expenditure on York Art Gallery. The statue of William Etty has at last been given a good scrub, and the fountain looks like it had an overhaul, too. Pity there was no money left to include the Art Gallery facade, looking as drab and dreary as always.

More good news though. When strolling around the newly planted garden I was told it will all look really good in aroundbout five years time! Something to look forward to.

Barbara Hudson, Badger Hill, York

 

Joyce Pickard (Letters, August 17) states that the Japanese wanted to surrender before the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. If that was the case, why did it take another bomb and 10 ten days of negotiations before they eventually surrendered?

She mentions the number of Japanese civilians killed, but makes not mention of the countless number of civilians the Japanese themselves killed.

Her letter goes on to mention the refugees in France. One can only assume from her letter that she has already offered her spare room to some refugees.

Or do I smell a hint of hypocrisy?

Derek M Martin, Maple Grove, York.