I would refer to the letter from Mr Robert Todd, published in the February 8 edition of the Borehamwood & Elstree Times, which was a response to my letter of explanation about the history of planning development in Borehamwood.

The fact remains that the influence and restrictions of statutory legislation effectively negate the efforts of local councillors when attempting to use the democratic process of decision-making to ensure that the best interests of the community are the only determining factor, and not those of the "greed-ridden land developers", as asserted by Mr Todd.

However, Mr Todd has chosen to abuse the privilege and opportunity afforded by this paper's editor, to make provision for readers' to express their views, by indulging inallegations, in a tawdry attempt to denigrate the integrity and commitment of elected members of the council: a dubious ploy to conceal his total absence of knowledge and understanding of the function of Hertsmere Borough Council as a planning authority.

Mr Todd has two choices, apart from continuing with his unsubstantiated assertions.

He may write to the leader of the council, Councillor Stuart Nagler, requesting confirmation of his assertions, or alternatively, the head of planning, Mr Richard Grove, about the "very dodgy dealings", and provide the evidence that would ensure an investigation is conducted, with a copy of this letter to the external auditor, who is independent of the council.

The remaining alternative, with all due respect to the right of Mr Todd to air his views, is to repent in favour of that ancient truism, the merit of which never ages, either put up or shut up. The letters pages should be left for more constructive criticisms from others who express their views and opinions within the recognised boundaries of accountability.

Councillor Frank Ward

Leader of Hertsmere Labour Group