Dear Laura Sandys
I understand you have released a statement, part of which says:
'some councillors in recent weeks have suggested vigilante actions are needed to bring crime down'
I do sincerely hope you are not referring to any Labour councillors, who most certainly WOULD NOT call for this type of action.
In a joint letter dated 14th October 2011, Cllr Linda Aldred, Cllr Doug Clark and I warned the Police Area Commander and the TDC Chief Executive that we had serious concerns that local people might take matters into their own hands. This was following a ward surgery where more than one resident suggested precisely this course of action to us. We quite rightly warned them firmly against any such action and subsequently informed the Police and TDC at the highest level. I think you'll agree this is absolutely contrary to the description you have used in your statement.
One of my fellow councillors is a highly qualified and experienced community development worker and the other is a JP of 28 years standing. I have spent my adult life working for community cohesion in Margate, Cliftonville and across Thanet. If you are referring to our efforts in Cliftonville West to avert residents taking matters into their own hands you should urgently retract this statement and apologise.
Regards
Cllr Clive Hart
No comments:
Post a Comment