Over the last couple of years the Conservative-led administration in Bournemouth in some cases have awarded themselves ‘pay’ increases of up to a staggering 40 per cent.

Now they are looking to cut some staff salaries.

If this is a genuine need to make cuts, then its time to show leadership.

Does every ward in Bournemouth need three councillors (Daily Echo, September 15)?

Show some leadership and reduce the number to two in every ward.

The Conservatives, if true to their national policies, should have no difficulty in doing this, they say if they win the ever closer General Election, they would reduce the number of MPs. This proposal would show they really meant business.

Bournemouth, similarly, currently has two MPs. Does it need both?

It has consistently returned two Conservative MPs. It would really show the general public it is not a gimmick, if one of the two prospective candidates said up front they would offer to give up their seat if elected and the policy was instigated.

Now is the time to show true leadership and courage with the conviction of their own policies.

Mike Carlile, Bennett Road, Charminster