I WOULD like to take issue with Cllr Morris regarding his letter (April 16).

The heading, "Improving services and value for money," suggests that local contractors are not providing a good service or value for money.

It is my understanding that the schedule of rates is determined by the authority and not individual contractors? If there is an issue with pricing then it is up to the authority to address this with contractors.

There are currently 100 building companies being investigated by the Office of Fair Trading for allegedly creating a cartel to tender for hospitals, schools and other government contracts.

Are any of those tendering for Bolton's works being investigated or have links with these companies?

When Cllr Morris talks about lifting the administrative burden from the council tax payers, is he suggesting that, along with local contractors, the administrative staff at the local authority's Corporate Property Services are going to lose their jobs?

If so, have they been informed - or does that also fall under the confidentially clause?

I also noted that he avoided what the cost has been for consultants and management time regarding this issue.

If the cost of administration is the problem, can he explain why two consultants were paid several thousand pounds two years ago to advise on and help create a paperless office that was meant to reduce administration in the Corporate Property Department?

Did the tax payer get value for money on that occasion?

Regarding the four contractors mentioned in his letter, he states that they have or are establishing links with secondary schools to ensure young people can take advantage of job opportunities.

If Cllr Morris spoke to local contractors, he would find that a large number of them accept youngsters on placements which lead to apprenticeships and employment.

What seems more alarming is that if the Leader of the Council makes a decision, it can not be changed by a committee, individual councillor or the full council. Is this democratic?

To discuss the grey bins and leisure centre in the same letter as people's futures speaks volumes.

B J Griffiths Springfield Road Sharples