Southall Labour councillors are absolutely right in refusing to join Councillor Gurcharan Singh in a radio debate on the future of the area (Gazette, October 3).
Southall's problems can only be addressed with long term strategy and significant investment. This can happen only if politicians forget their ideological differences and work together for the good of the area.
Singh's history of sectarian politics shows he is incapable of this. Whenever there is a political storm in Southall, be it Gurdwara or party politics, you'll find him at the centre of it.
A radio slanging-match would achieve nothing for the area. It would just be another example of the bitter, divisive politics that have kept Southall in the doldrums for decades.
Singh is desperately trying to prove himself to a Conservative Party that used him for the Ealing Southall byelection and doesn't want him any more.
He's the only person that hasn't realised it yet. Even the leader of the council, Jason Stacey, doesn't think highly enough of him to give him a place on the council's cabinet.
What Southall needs is politicians who can inspire and unite people. And just like the Conservative Party, the last thing we need is Councillor Gurcharan Singh.
VIVEK DHILLON
Southall
