Pushing water uphill - why we lose good Councillors

Ran into Phil Thornton, ex-Labour Councillor for Shipley East. After the normal greetings the conversation went something like this:

"Do you miss it?"

"Was gutted for a few days after I lost but no - discovered there's a real world out there...pointless being a Councillor"

"Pushing water uphill?"

"Yes, waste of time."

Now I don't know about others but I find it sad that someone with Phil's talent sees no point in trying to come back as a councillor. That what we do is a waste of time. But I do understand why he feels that way about it. And our Parties have it in them to make the changes that will keep folk like Phil - and doubtless many others - involved and active.

1. Stop rewarding bullies - sorry "strong, assertive, forceful leaders"

2. Put an end to obsessive whipping on local councils - these aren't matters of principle

3. Say thank you to people who serve the Party well for a long time

4. Promote independence of thought not slavish adherence to the Leader's line

...and after all this, agree that we elect people to make decisions not to perform some fictitious "community leadership" function.