I am grateful to Dennis Signy for his congratulations on being so 'quick out of the political traps' over the issue of Barnet FC's Underhill plans (Stay out of it', Times Letters, October 24).

I was, however, somewhat surprised by the degree of his concern that I am consulting with residents over such a major planning application. As the GLA member for Barnet and Camden, and as a Totteridge ward councillor, I am doing exactly what the people of Barnet voted me in to do.

Mr Signy may very well feel that I am 'sticking my oar in', but the people of Barnet elected me to do so on such important local issues.

The photograph carried by the paper showing Dennis Signy sitting next to Tony Kleanthous shows quite clearly which position he is coming from. I, on the other hand, am widely consulting residents so that I can come to an informed decision.

As a distinguished former editor of your paper, I am sure Mr Signy can appreciate that one should always listen to the views of the public.

Councillor Brian Coleman

GLA member for Barnet and Camden

October 30, 2001 17:06