In your report concerning the proposed rise in Minehead Town Council’s precept (Free Press January 11), you omitted to report that, although the finance and staffing committee unanimously agreed to recommend a balanced budget, the recommended rise of 40 per cent was not agreed unanimously.

In a named vote, we, the two Conservative councillors, voted against.

Whilst accepting the need for a significant increase in the precept to pay for services no longer provided by the district and county councils, we do not approve of the profligate spending of the Labour Party and Independents which is included in the proposed rise.

Cllrs Gary Miele and Jean Parbrook, Minehead Town Council.