A ‘Champion’ performance

I MUST say I consider that Rotherham MP Sarah Champion did herself no harm by, and during, her appearance on Tuesday night’s BBC 2 TV programme “Inside the Commons”. She appeared to be pleasant and approachable and free from arrogance and guile. Character

In fact I was quite charmed and feel that her appearance on the programme may well have scuppered any hope that UKIP had of unseating her in the forthcoming election. I also feel that, perhaps for the first time in a long time, we may well have a good, or even excellent, MP representing local interest in parliament.

However, the elections taking place in May are not only about representation in the national parliament but also involve election to the council. Now, whilst I wish I could feel and write so warmly about our ruling council and, also, about our other local MPs, I’m afraid I can’t. Their demeanour, utterances and actions exhibit arrogance in many forms.

Recent revelations have revealed total contempt towards residents legitimate concerns whether it be about the loss of greenfield sites to urban sprawl, the demolition of the original Doncaster Road hospital and, dare I refer to it again, CSE. Unfortunately, several service heads in the employment of the council also exhibit the same disdain and arrogance towards those that pay their salaries.

Now whilst I have warm expectations about Sarah Champion’s future performance on our behalf, I will be careful to ensure these don’t cast a rosy glow over my expectations with regard to our Labour councillors. I would urge others to do the same when they cast their votes.

May I be so bold as to give some advice to Sarah Champion? Drop your legal action against the local UKIP activist, we in Rotherham have more important things that you need to concentrate your energy and talent on. Carry on as you are. Right thinking people will judge you by your words and actions, not by the utterances of others.

K Dutton, Newman Road, Rotherham