THE subject of the proposed unitary authority presents many matters to consider and there is little time left in which to form and express your opinions. It seems that those who will be most affected, the public, have been least consulted, and rely upon parish, town, district and county councillors, to speak for them. The more I know of those professing to represent me, from central government to local, the more disenchanted I am with their efforts and judgement, and I say that as a parish councillor. I realise that what I write here will seem to be negative, but cast your minds back to what I believe were better days, weigh up the future, and then, if you wish, deem me wrong.

Individuals as well as councils/councillors should express their opinions. I would urge you most strongly to do this. At least, letting your local councillors know those closest to you, at parish and town level and by taking whatever other channels are open to you. Attend your local council meetings. Ensure that your wishes are clearly expressed, that those representing you are able to reach an informed decision. Write, if possible, to those who matter. The more individuals who do this (beware petitions don't seem to get the attention that they once received) the better! If you feel strongly, let this government know that you don't trust and support it!

My feeling is that, rather than a proposed unitary authority becoming the new local government, it will remove the local, and act as the thin end of the driving wedge for regional government. This will provide further disruption to our lives, pushing Cornwall ultimately to the back of the minds of those who should be caring for it and leaving us with discontent and hollow pockets.

I have seen the decline in efficiency, the ignorance of true local "needs," the pandering to the wants, especially to those of the retirement and second home brigade, and tourism (which is encouraged in this county to benefit the few at the cost of so many) and the continual escalation of costs for poorer services.

Every change that has been thrust on us has encouraged, in my opinion, more and more chaos (and an increasing demand on the purse of the electorate) to a system that once worked so well. It should be realised that there is a means, still, of challenging, if you wish, the proposed unitary authority. If you feel you need to, do it!

Joy Thomas, Goonlaze Terrace, Stithians