FOLLOWING your report in last week?s paper, I am being asked why, as the West Devon Borough Council ward member, I did not express an opinion at the planning and licensing meeting at which the application for the Exbourne Shop, post office and café was discussed. The reason is that all councillors should abide by a code of conduct and there are two areas to consider, whether you have a ?personal? or ?prejudicial? interest. If you decide the former, you may remain and take part in a debate. If you decide the latter you have to withdraw from the meeting, therefore taking no part in the debate. During the past two years I have expressed in public my concerns as to whether this project would be commercially viable. I remain unconvinced that the spending of £1/3-million would be feasible. Therefore, I considered that my interest was prejudicial as any remarks I could have made at the planning and licensing meeting could have been considered predetermined or biased. Another point I wish to clarify with your readers is the report of a comment made at the meeting, ?The villagers of Exbourne should have their own post office, as currently the nearest one was in Hatherleigh or North Tawton?. This is inaccurate as post office services are available on Monday and Friday mornings in the village hall. David Weeks Representing Exbourne Ward West Devon Borough Council
