The Police Forum has become a regular and important part of the Single Area Committee meetings, as have the regular presentations on numerous subjects including the Kew Sports Park dream of Cllr Fred Weavers, which we supported. These sections are all appreciated, especially the very informative Police Forum, which answers residents' questions on law and order issues.

But currently, as you know, there is a heated debate about the radical changes taking place within our local Fire Brigade. The Southport Party would like to see the Chief Fire Officer (or his deputy) attending one or more of the Single Area Committee meetings in the next few months to answer some important questions and also to explain why there is such a vital need for changes in our local fire service cover, which some residents cannot understand.

By accepting this invitation, both the Fire and Police services can together demonstrate their openness with increased public accountability in running their vital life and death services.

This move, if accepted, would greatly contribute to the 'spirit' of the new Freedom of Information Act, recently introduced by the central government with the intention of improving the democratic process.

So, we respectfully suggest that such an invitation be sent to Mr. McGuirck, asking him to come along at some convenient time in the near future to address all interested local residents.