Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Is WC a little too keen on discussing things in private?

As a substitute member of the WC audit committee I'm concerned to see that, yet again, council officers are recommending that an item be discussed in 'closed' session.

The matter relates to non-pensionable honoraria and the ex-Kennet District Council; thats all I'm allowed to tell you. All the actual details are contained in a confidential report and so I can't divulge anything. However, I'm sure you can work out from the subject title what is being audited.

Wiltshire Council officers are recommending that the press and public should be excluded as a) the discussion could reveal the identity of an individual and b) a claim to legal professional privilege could be maintained in legal proceedings.

Having read the report I cannot agree with either of these theories but, of course, I can't say why as I would then be in breach of confidence - what a great system!!

I intend to attend the meeting and lobby for this matter to be discussed in public. We should aim for open government; hiding discussions behind closed doors should be reserved for truly sensitive matters. This, in my opinion, isn't one.