FOR many years I was responsible, among other things, for the Brunel Centre.

A considerable effort went into its construction and management by the former SBC and by Thamesdown BC.

The objective, agreed by the then majority Labour Group, was to have prime assets in council ownership where the increase in rental values, and capital, accrued to the ratepayers who had financed the enterprise.

When the Labour Group sold the centre to Westfield, apparently in panic because of the deterioration of the council's finances under their control, it was a great disappointment to me, and many others.

Now the centre has been sold on again. The new SBC, as it is not the owner, is reduced to commenting from the sidelines, and a major part of its town centre policy has been undermined.

Many ratepayers, including me, would like the answer to two questions: How much did Westfield pay for the centre? How much did they sell it for?

If they have made a profit it is a direct gift from the council to the private sector.

D M KENT

Broome Manor

Swindon