I have followed with interest the articles and correspondence about the suggested merger of South Hams District Council with West Devon Borough Council.

From all I have read I fail to comprehend why any South Hams elected councillor should support the merger.

We are elected to represent our residents.

The merger will mean a 40 per cent-plus increase in our share of the council tax. It will increase South Hams tax revenue by £2.3m. West Devon tax payers will not be asked to pay any more if the merger goes ahead.

The final decision will be taken by Parliament. I encourage people not only to tell SHDC what they think, but also their MP.

Keith Baldry

Leader of the Opposition South Hams District Council