The fact Conservative councillors voted themselves a massive rise on is of no consequence to me. It is morals, or a lack of them, that have driven me to write to you for the first time in 45 years.

I believe the decision of Barnet Council was immoral, but it is the action of some councillors, or inaction in the case of the leader, which incenses me.

To vote for additional payment is one thing, to tell us we will be delighted (Cllr Brian Coleman) or to disappear with no justification or explanation of the decision (Cllr Lynne Hillan) is quite another.

To compound their actions and to confirm their votes were purely self-serving, they chastise Kate Salinger for acting with her conscious.

Now instead of representing those who voted for her, Cllr Salinger has been removed from the position we, the public, placed her in.

Where is the democracy in Barnet? Kate, if you stand as an independent you have my vote.

I have written to Cllr Hillan to request an explanation of her decision to vote in favour of the increases. I have also written to Cllr Coleman to explain that he is mistaken in his belief I am delighted and to request justification that he is entitled to, indeed worth, what he takes from the public purse.

I look forward to their reply which I will consider and review with care.

In the meantime, I recommend the decision is reversed.

Gavin Walker, Cheyne Walk, Hendon