EVERYONE knows that Labour, backed by Liberal Democrats, are committed to introducing a Regional Assembly, a super council, stretching from Carlisle to Crewe, meaning another level of bureaucracy and more politicians.

Last year voters in the North-east bluntly rebutted John Prescott plans by voting against an assembly and thus rejected more bureaucrats and higher taxes.

Of course Labour won't let it rest at that.

We now find that it still intends to bring about a regional assembly by stealth. First we had plans for a regional fire service, then Labour announced its intention to create a regional ambulance service. Now we learn that we are to face the prospect of a regional police force.

All these plans will take away local control and influence over these vital public services. Any service covering a larger area will become more remote from users and the taxpayer who, after-all, pays the bill.

This is a direct attempt by Labour to get round the need for a referendum on an assembly in the North-west. A referendum which Labour knows the public will reject.

Only Conservatives amongst the major parties are committed to fight Labours plans to take away local control of our key services.

Councillor John Walsh

Conservative Environment Spokesman

Astley Bridge Ward