COUNTY council boss Keith Robinson has called for a fair and balanced debate over the bid to create One Council in Wiltshire.

The bid for One Council for Wiltshire is in the final 16 being considered by Secretary of State Ruth Kelly. A 12-week consultation with stakeholders is underway and a result is expected in July.

But the bid, which was proposed by the Wiltshire County Council and supported by North Wiltshire District Council, has been opposed by the remaining three district councils.

"We need a fair and balanced debate about how local government can best serve the communities in Wiltshire.

"It is not enough to say the present system is working. We need to reduce costs without reducing services and improve accountability to the public. One council would do just that. I have seen nothing to suggest there is a viable alternative," said Dr Robinson.

"The government invited our proposal because we simply have to find more efficient and cost effective ways of working together.

"I would really welcome an open debate about the alternatives. We also have to realise that local government has to change in order to become more cost effective and efficient.

"Why have five organisations, five management teams, five back offices, five sets of councillors, five sets of property - if one can do the job?" he said.

Now he has posted his answers to the criticisms levelled by the three district councils.

He has sent them to all the chief executives and posted them on the One Council for Wiltshire website at www.onecouncilforwiltshire.co.uk.

"I feel strongly that the general public should have the opportunity to get the facts. We have been open about why we think one council is the best way forward and we welcome comments, questions and criticisms" he said.

For more information on the One Council bid, visit www.onecouncilforwiltshire.co.uk