It was a very profound statement from retiring council leader Cllr Ian Gillies: “Do we really need political parties in local government?” (The Press, April 18).

This is probably a question most of us have asked if we’re truthful.

In a smallish city the size of York, do we really need all the party political tribalism that Ian Gillies refers to? I think not. We need common sense for the greater good of all citizens (this also applies to national politics). York needs to move forward with confidence and the willingness to see through the big projects like York Central to make sure they are a fitting legacy for the next generations - and something to be proud of.

I don’t feel completely identified with any of the parties - I’m a little bit of everything. I’m entirely on the side of business as this pays all our wages and the wherewithal for councils and governments to allow them the luxury of profligacy. At the same time I want to see a fairer society - not reflected in the Persimmon £75 million payout to CEO Jeff Fairburn.

Maybe we are at a defining stage in our politics. The public just want things done; they have enough on their plate trying to keep their own lives and families in order and the tribal aspects are perceived as destructive.

We need more collective political responsibility in York and less in-fighting and stupidity.

Keith Massey,

Bishopthorpe, York

Where can we find these independents?

Retiring City of York Council leader Ian Gillies makes a very salient point when stating ‘party politics’ is not good for Local Government (The Press, April 18).

Alas, one obvious problem comes to mind.

Where are sufficient independent candidates to be found with the time, inclination, expertise, energy and private means to fill the council chamber? Sadly, our national party machines are too powerful to allow Cllr Gillies’ idea to succeed.

Peter Rickaby,

West Park, Selby