Andy Newman has stated that "Swindon Borough Council say that it is beyond them to consider moral and international issues" (EA, March 22).

I'd like to point out to Mr Newman that the world does not wait for the council to hand down a collective opinion on these matters. The council's role is to provide services to local people.

However, as a member of the council and the Labour Party, I'd like to categorically state my absolute opposition to the war in Iraq, which I believe is morally suspect and lacks the legitimacy of UN support. Far from being a failure of diplomacy caused by the French, this action is a result of a failure of democracy.

(Coun) David Nash

Central Ward

Thetford Way

Taw Hill, Swindon