Christopher Hawtree (Opinion, April 19) raised an interesting issue about political discourse in Brighton and Hove.

The essence of his comments - that it is pointless trying to argue with the Labour council over different issues because the result of such efforts is either abuse from Labour councillors or an ignoring of views that are contrary to whatever scheme has been dreamt up - is leading to a growing disaffection for the political process in the city.

This is the way things are run by a Labour council wedded to an ideological agenda, which essentially brooks no opposition and will not alter policies even when they are clearly not working.

Furthermore, there seems to be a clear preference on Brighton and Hove City Council for high-profile projects and gimmicks, while residents are increasingly angry at the apparent dismissal of the concerns they have over the day-to-day problems which directly affect their lives.

Recent events have shown the council only changes when it has no choice. The only way to change things for the better in Brighton and Hove is to change the party in power at the first opportunity, in 2003.

-Coun Brian Oxley, deputy leader, Conservative group, Brighton and Hove City Council