THERE is more than a touch of arrogance and even contempt in the handling of the current crisis at the heart of Eastleigh Borough Council.

As this paper reports today, questions are being asked after it was revealed the leader of the council, Keith House, ended one relationship with a fellow Cabinet member and then began one with another.

While the private life of all three elected representatives is just that, a private issue, and this paper certainly does not wish to dwell on the break-up of relationships of the heart, there are important issues of good governance that need to be addressed.

The fact Councillor House’s former long-term partner Councillor Louise Bloom, Cabinet member for environment and sustainability, is no longer attending most Cabinet meetings where she would have to face her former partner and his new lover, brings into question whether such an arrangement is truly in the interest of the electorate.

Cllr House should also answer questions surrounding the fact that he appointed a person who is now his new partner, Councillor Tonia Craig, to the post of Cabinet member responsible for health and community safety, a post that carries with it a £7,500 increment.

While this paper is not claiming anything untoward, illegal or inappropriate has taken place, it does believe the people of the Borough of Eastleigh deserve some statement regarding these questions from their elected leaders.

So far the leader has refused to comment at all. This is unacceptable in an open democracy.

Instead of hiding behind a wall of silence, the council leader and his two Cabinet members should take steps to assure residents that their minds are fully on the important, highly remunerated roles and high offices they have been granted.