IT was disappointing to read this week that Southampton City Council has chosen to ignore the clearly-expressed views of residents on a reduction in councillor numbers.

It’s hardly the first example in history of politicians ignoring their constituents, but it’s a great shame when such a clear majority were in favour, and it makes one question why such consultations even exist.

There can’t have been a time in recent years when voters felt more switched off from politics.

When I was a civil servant, I came across too many politicians who had never worked in real jobs, who knew little of real life, and who offered nothing to the real world.

This lack of humanity in politics is precisely what drove me to stand, and it’s flattering when people say that helps to re-engage them.

And it’s why it’s so frustrating when the council does something like this and sets us all so many steps back again. 

BEN NICHOLLS, Lib Dem PPC for Romsey and Southampton North.