IT would seem that amnesia is rife among Blackburn with Darwen Conservative councillors. Just a few weeks ago, we had Coun David Pearson saying that the Liberal Democrats voted for the increases in council tax imposed by Labour, despite it being a matter of public record that we voted against.

Now, we have Coun Paul McGurty (Letters, May 28) accusing us of being confused on the matter of councillors' allowances.

Twelve months ago, when allowances went up on average some eight per cent, some Tory councillors stood up in the council chamber crying 'disgrace.' but they happily accepted the rises. True, so did the Liberal Democrats -- but less happily.

The decision we made at that time was that we would accept the rise and advocate a freeze this year. At this year's budget debate, as Liberal Democrat spokesman, I stated quite categorically that there should be a freeze on councillors' allowances, particularly in light of the swingeing increase in council tax. This was a matter for principle with us, not policy.

At the annual council forum we reiterated that there should be no increase in allowances this year. So no policy 'on the hoof,' just putting words into action, as we always try to do.

We believe in reasonable recompense for councillors but, as with all other aspects of the council, we want to ensure council tax payers get value for money.

COUN KEVIN CONNOR (Marsh House Ward, Blackburn with Darwen Council), Elswick Street, Darwen.