You reported protesters at the last full meeting of Colchester Council complained that opening the meeting with Christian prayers excluded people of other faiths (Gazette, February 18).

Barely two hours later, when the agenda item was “sharing our chief executive with Braintree Council”, I could not help remembering the words from the Sermon on the Mount: “A man cannot be the slave of two masters at once; either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will devote himself to the one and despise the other.”

Initially, I felt sorry for a future holder of what used to be called the office of Town Clerk for having to serve two full councils at the same time.

Then, a second concern came to mind: An outstanding, charismatic and professional expert dealing with the amateur and transitory leaders of two separate bodies might well acquire the most powerful influence as he/she played one group off against the other and could well become a virtual all-powerful dictator, far beyond the reach of the humble back-bencher.

Wisely, Colchester Council agreed to ask for an in-depth study of the proposal for future consideration.

In the past, Colchester has sought to amalgamate with a neighbour without success, but this might be the logical conclusion to bring even greater cash savings for the taxpayer.

Perhaps a reduction in councillor numbers; also, could Brainchester be the final answer?

John Bouckley
Councillor
West Mersea Ward
Colchester Council