FOLLOWING a number of letters which have appeared in this paper recently I feel it is important that I put on record the exact circumstances surrounding substitutions of the Conservative Group members at the future planning and housing committee meeting held on April 19.

As deputy leader of the Conservative Group, early in April I contacted all members of my group serving on that committee to ensure their attendance at the meeting, as the date had been changed from the scheduled meeting. 

Two members of the group advised me that they had another meeting to attend.  I then contacted the leader of our group, Cllr McInnes, to advise him that two substitutes would be needed.

The constitution of the council states that, 'If a member is subsequently able to attend a meeting for which a substitute has been appointed, and s/he is present for the start of the meeting, then with the agreement of the nominated substitute, s/he can be re-instated and take part in the meeting'. Neither councillor attended the meeting.

In addition, a councillor can attend any committee meeting and speak, as many did at this future planning and housing committee meeting. At no time was any member advised by either Cllr McInnes or myself that they should not attend.

Cllr Diana Moyse

I MUST take issue with Alison Wright (Letters July 1) when she criticises Cllr Mandy Govier regarding her performance as an elected representative of the people.

Mrs Govier is a tireless, dedicated, highly principled councillor and lady; her contribution to our community is immense.

Ted Sherrell

Whitchurch Road

Tavistock