COUN Kevin Small's letter of February 5 demonstrates his lack of understanding of basic economics and the reciprocal relationship between state and citizen.

Government does not create wealth but relies on its income generation through taxation.

Anybody who has worked for 50 years will have paid a substantial amount in tax. It therefore follows that this represents 50 years of service to their country. As a reward for such dedicated service citizens should have the right to a decent retirement.

Many of today's pensioners defended this country's freedom. They fought for their own democratic rights but also for those of future generations.

Coun Small states that Frank Avenell's work record and war record does not automatically mean that everything he says is right. To this argument I would say that just because Coun Small disagrees with what Mr Avenell says does not make him wrong. Both are entitled to assert their own democratic opinions.

My opinion is that Coun Small and his Labour group colleagues lost control of the council because they failed to listen to the real concerns of people.

The reality is that Swindon's citizens were fed up with being ripped off year after year by being forced to pay extortionate council tax increases while the money raised was being squandered on inefficient, ineffective, wasteful and failing services.

K KANE

Ellingdon Road

Wroughton

Swindon