Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Lady Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy,

I try not to mention non-local issues on this site, but I just have to comment on Baroness Ashton of Upholland.

Earlier this week she was appointed as the first EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy (as well as vice-president for external affairs). As I've never heard of her I can't really comment about press speculation as to her experience or suitabilty for the post.

However, one thing sticks in my craw more than anything else - the woman has NEVER been elected to anything. She now has more power than most people in Government and yet she isn't answerable to the electorate. This is the sort of 'jobs for the boys' that we see all too regularly in local quangos but I'm applalled that it extends to this level of appointment.

Out of interest, her salary will be £193,000 with an accomodation alowance of £35,200 and an entertainment budget of £9,000. Nice work if you can avoid having to put yourself before the public for election ...