In last week's Review, the Labour leader on Forest of Dean District Council stated that Tory policies are damaging Foresters and the local economy. She then went on to add that the Labour group does not have the numbers to overturn that.

I do not understand this. Last time I looked there were 17 Conservatives in a council of 48.

Surely, the whole point of being an effective opposition is to bring down the party in power where there is an issue of major importance, such as car parking charges.

Can I suggest that she seeks to collaborate with all the other non Tory councillors to get stuck into the Tory administration. on this and other issues?

It seems from the defensive nature of much of her recent outpourings that she is more concerned with trying to justify the ineffectual opposition mounted by her party.

UKIP certainly has no desire to form a coalition with Labour we just want to fight this appalling Tory administration.

However UKIP are prepared to work with anyone who has the interests of the Forest at heart.

So, Labour group, a bit more McMahon and a little less Martin.

– Councillor Richard Leppington (UKIP), Bream.