Writer was wrong on these matters (From Andover Advertiser)

Writer was wrong on these matters

3:32pm Thursday 9th July 2009

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LAST week’s letters page could have given the impression that the silly season had come early this year or perhaps one writer, at least, had benefitted too much from the sun we were basking in during the recent heat wave!

In suggesting that John Bercow was the best choice for speaker your correspondent clearly indicated that he did not know that Honourable Member very well!

John won the election by gaining the votes of just over 300 MPs, all but about four of whom were from the Government benches and their LibDem supporters, and who, almost certainly, won’t be Parliamentarians this time next year once the General Election has been run.

Those members of the Labour and Conservative parties who will have to work with the new Speaker, almost exclusively will not have supported him in the vote. This is not, in my view, the best formula for taking forward reforms of the various processes that Members have agreed are necessary.

Your correspondent also criticised Sir George Young for employing a member of his family on his staff.

For over 40 years now I have witnessed very many instances, in both the public and private sectors, where people have employed family members.

Virtually without exception those people have worked harder, more loyally and effectively, for longer hours and for less salary than would have been the case if the employee had not been a member of the family!

The final point I feel I should make in this regard relates to the suggestion that Sir George had not spoken out against a fellow Member for the totally inappropriate employment of that Member's sons.

This is complete nonsense. I have been present on a number of occasions when Sir George publicly criticised that Member for his behaviour, which he described as inexcusable.

David Kirk, County Councillor - Andover South, Lead Cabinet Member for Children's Services and Education, Hampshire County Council, The Castle, Winchester.

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