MR Wellstood’s regular moans about that terrible council in Eastleigh which according to him refuses to listen to the residents’ falls at the very first post – as always – because it’s based on a totally false premiss. If the Lib Dems don’t listen to the residents, how come they win the elections?

In parts of Botley – especially in Boorley Green – there has always been a vociferous minority strongly opposed to the Lib Dem council’s plans for more housing.

However, when it comes to council elections the Lib Dems win every time – and have done for over 20 years. This year the figures were Lib Dems 752, Cons 522, UKIP 473 and Labour 123.

The Lib Dems win because they listen to the residents – the majority of whom, judging by the votes, are in favour of the new housing.

Is Mr Wellstood suggesting that having won the election, the Lib Dems should then do what the minority want and not the majority? Wouldn’t that be a betrayal of the democratic process?

MARTIN KYRLE, Chandler’s Ford.