David Norris (Independent)

I recognise the important role played by local authorities in our democracy and the fine work that is sometimes done. However, I have always had an ambiguous relationship with county councils. Perhaps 15 years ago I was invited to address the General Council of County Councils in Killarney. I gave the members a bit of a jolt with regard to section 4 planning permissions, which were in operation at the time. I was howled down by most of the attendance. I was asked "What part of England do you come from, sonny?" and that kind of stuff.