Whether at local or national level, party politicians surround themselves with like-minded acolytes and so consequently only hear what they want to hear, despite their protestations that they take into account varying opinions from those with differing views.

That is why, as happens in my locality, to be represented by an independent means that genuine concerns are addressed without party politics aforethought.

Other areas around York would greatly benefit if their local councillor wasn’t beholden to their party machine.

Geoff Robb,

Hunters Close,

Dunnington, York