Andy Large's political miscellanea

Dear Editor, I read with interest the article on Jackie Weaver's call for parish councils to wield more authority.  As chair of the Cheshire Association of Local Councils, it's no surprise she's pushing for an expanded role for these bodies, given that their precepts escape central government control and allow unchecked spending. This association strikes me as yet another NGO squandering taxpayer money on unnecessary bureaucracy.  We eagerly await the day when Reform UK takes charge of more councils, paving the way to abolish such entities entirely. Imagine councils focused solely on delivering essential services, rather than serving as cushy retirement spots for overbearing bureaucrats. That would be a welcome reform indeed. Yours sincerely, Andy Large Alsager    

Dear Editor, I couldn't help but notice our local Labour MP parading around town, dining out at our fine local restaurants and loudly proclaiming her devotion to "supporting local business". How very touching. One can almost hear the violins playing in the background as she tucks into yet another meal that most of her constituents can now only dream about, but whose taxes have likely paid for. Did she bother to check the prices for eating out lately? Through the roof, that's where they are. And why might that be? Energy costs – significantly higher, thank you very much. Employment costs – jacked up thanks to those wonderful employer National Insurance hikes and minimum wage rises that hospitality businesses are apparently meant to absorb like magic. Ingredients costs – soaring as well.  Restaurants are forced to charge more, cut staff, or simply close their doors. But never mind all that – our MP is out there heroically supporting the sector by... spending money she c...