IN MESSRS Jones and Dean s recent letters, I notice two themes that seem to pervade most Lib Dem correspondence – the need to protest rather than behave as a professional administration and secondly, the inclination to make personal comments about others

IN MESSRS Jones and Dean's recent letters, I notice two themes that seem to pervade most Lib Dem correspondence - the need to protest rather than behave as a professional administration and secondly, the inclination to make personal comments about others whilst never ceasing to claim credit for every favourable headline.

I don't believe your readers want me to play political ping-pong, so I will just stick to three facts.

Rapidly rising energy prices have resulted in the annual cost of street lighting in Essex now amounting to £3.8 million and at the same time producing 19,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.

It is responsible management to investigate if this can be reduced whilst balancing this with public need.

There was and still remains a desire by Essex County Council (ECC) to listen and consult. Some excellent developments have resulted from consultation including the opportunity to trial technology that would facilitate the time control of each light.

The final, but perhaps most significant fact, is that the Lib Dem controlled Devon County Council is planning "to remove non-essential lights and signs, install dimmable bulbs and turn off lights at night" (The Times, January 11).

Non negotiable opposition in Uttlesford but a credit claiming, planet saving Lib Dem inspired initiative in Devon.

Any impartial observer would conclude that nationally the Lib Dem party is totally divided on this issue.

I believe rate-payers expect a continuous review of expenditure, services and the carbon footprint; they expect innovation, lateral thinking and constructive change when appropriate.

They expect a professional and well reasoned approach before taking final decisions. This is how ECC are handling the issue of street lighting.

Howard Rolfe

Great Chesterford