As someone who has been critical of the way the Brighton and Hove City Council use its resources, I cannot help but feel the relatively small amount of money spent each year by senior officers on taxis is entirely justifiable (The Argus, April 3).

Taxis are a form of public transport, the use of which supports the local economy. This relatively low useage clearly reflects the argument that they are only used when absolutely neccessary.

There is also an important personal safety issue, especially for female members of staff when working late in the evenings.

There is no scandal here and I am pleased to see senior officers have been relatively prudent in their use of resources.

The council learnt its lesson from The Argus's excellent investigation of the unacceptably high use of council credit cards and questionable dining practices.

This really is not the case in this instance. If it was, I would be the first to say so.

-Councillor Paul Elgood, Brunswick and Adelaide ward