I DOUBT very much that Wirral Council will ever vote to reduce the number of councillors from the 66 it has now – it would be asking too much for them to consider derailing the "allowances" gravy train.

The leader of the council says he has an open mind about the idea. But I reckon he is bluffing.

Imagine the hot water he'd land himself in if Labour lost control of the authority after he’d meddled with the numbers.

I think we’re stuck with our 66 until such time as a higher authority tells them the game’s up – I won’t be holding my breath for that to happen.

P Fitzpatrick by email.