I have been concerned for some time that some senior officers of Cornwall county council do not appear to understand their role in a democratic institution.

It is my understanding that members approve policy, which officers then execute. If unforeseen problems arise in the execution of policy, members should be advised accordingly and approval sought for any recommendations made for the amendment of that policy.

Members are accountable to the electorate for the successful operation of policies, which must be democratically determined in the council chamber. The individual member may not necessarily be in agreement with a particular policy, but it is nonetheless incumbent on each and every member to ensure that the collective will of the council, as expressed by a decision of the majority, is implemented. The thwarting of such a decision by senior officers would negate the cardinal principle of representative democracy and members would be deluding themselves were they not to recognise that resisting any such move is our prime responsibility to the Cornish electorate.

Serious implications could arise from the failure to implement one council policy in particular and to allow the occupation of residences on new residential estates before prescribed health and safety regulations have been met. To reduce the likelihood of accidents and injury, roads and pavements should have the hardcore covered with a preliminary layer of tarmacadam and be provided with the stipulated street lighting facilities; to reduce the possibility of flooding, gulleys and manholes should be set at, and not above, surface level and to assist vital services in the event of emergency, street name plates should be in place.

am calling on the leader of the council, with the full support of executive members, to terminate this disturbing situation, which clearly could have implications not only for the wellbeing of a number of people I represent but also for the wider Cornish taxpayer.

Further action would probably best be dealt with, along with other matters, when the District Auditor completes his wide-sweeping investigations, which he is about to commence, and issues his report.

Graeme Hicks, county councillor.