FULL marks to Coun Tomlinson for his comment that "maintaining the council's reserves was good housekeeping."

A similar compliment applies to Coun Bawden for his strictures in respect of social services' overspend of £1.9m, which contrasts with the profligate spending of the Labour controlled council.

Deputy Labour leader Coun Barrie Thomson advocates increased expenditure on street cleaning with which I disagree. The police should carry out a sting on the litter louts.

Fines and the publication of names in the Advertiser would bring about an improvement.

The Conservative-led council promised to reduce council tax rises to an acceptable level and has made a good start.

The Fairness For Pensioners Group will continue to take an interest in council expenditure which is provided by the taxpayers.

F AVENELL

Swindon