Cllr Meric Apak

• I HAVE just read your report concerning Cllr Meric Apak and wholeheartedly support him, (Housing chief says council could ‘save a packet’ by taking back services from private contractors, July 19).

Out-sourcing and the large PFI, private finance initiative, contracts have cost the ratepayer of Camden their future and a great deal of money. Camden Council has pursued this policy for ideological reasons.

Far from improving services, the drive to reduce costs using private sector contracts has paradoxically increased costs and left the borough with poorer services and sub-standard building and maintenance works.

It is important that Camden recognise the folly of this very expensive out-sourcing policy. Camden ratepayers deserve more than to be used as pawns in this ideological game. For evidence of the above, see the works and maintenance work in Bacton Tower, NW5.

LESLIE DAWES
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