LEADING business figures in Plymouth report that we have been denied a say in the consultation process regarding changes to the way Plymouth City Council is organised.

The consultation information disappeared from the council website and council leader Vivien Pengelly, who is against the principle of publicly elected mayors, says it was a system "hiccup". I believe a publicly elected mayor can achieve a higher level of visibility and accountability and impact more on citizen engagement in the democratic process, particularly in increasing voter participation in local elections. Equally important is the potential for elected mayors to burst open the anonymous anti-democratic structures and cosy relationships I feel dominate local decision-making.

Elected mayors could make a difference because they'll have no place to hide and will shore up democratic values like transparency and openness.

In view of the "hiccup" the council has extended the consultation to December 5. So be quick if you want to see what the options are from May 2011: a new "strong" leader (still elected by the full council) and cabinet model similar to the status quo, or a publicly-elected mayor (answerable to you) and cabinet.

Visit www.plymouth.gov.uk and complete the "New Executive Arrangement Survey" online and have your say.

ROGER PRESCOTT

Plympton