Graham has asked us to post these letters here on his behalf.
Dear Parish Clerk,
I have considered at some length the situation on the Parish Council over the last few weeks. The reluctance to reveal information to fellow councillors breaches the ‘Nolan Principles’ of “Openness, Honesty and Accountability” which we all signed up to, and it is unacceptable to expect councillors to give a sound decision on information given, if at all, at a moment’s notice so they have no time to consider their response. I am a great believer in the democratic process and I, for one, have not forgotten that it was the people of Oxborough who put me where I am and I owe it to them to keep them fully informed from start to finish on matters that concern them which I am not being allowed to do.
As the information has been deliberately withheld from me, I consider this to be a breach of the obligation holders of public office have.
As no instructions on appropriate behaviour have been adhered to, it is with a heavy heart I feel I’m left with no alternative but to tender my resignation from the Parish Council.
I’m fully aware of the consequences of my actions, as others should have been prepared for, and am aware of where the responsibility lies.
Regards,
G. Allison.
To the Members of the Parish,
I must apologise to everyone who supported me for my original resignation from the Parish Council. I was very unhappy with the behaviour of some of the people on the “Top Table” and, in my opinion, the way some Parish Council business was being conducted.
I have always tried to work in, what I considered, to be the best interest of the Parish and the majority of the villagers. Unfortunately, it appeared to me, that some people were more interested in their own agenda and were not reminded of the “Selflessness” Principle of “Holders of Public Office”. I thought by resigning I could force an election for a new council but I was wrong and maybe I could achieve more if I was still on the PC. Not my decision now.
(Just as a point of interest, the cost of an election is determined after the election and not before, as it depends on several factors.)
Regarding the play area. I believe it is still a possibility and will continue working for it whether on or off the PC.
With apologies again.
Regards,
Graham Allison.