SIR,
A group of concerned citizens in and around Monmouth have decided to start campaigning against the forthcoming Coalition Government-driven cuts.
The proposed 'review' of Tourist Information Centres, the closure of public toilets and the 'sell off' of the Forest are just some of the early examples of what's to come.
Draconian cuts to welfare and housing benefits and ever-higher unemployment are to follow.
Monmouth SOS (Save Our Services) does not accept that there is no alternative to the cuts programme.
No-one heard David Cameron complaining about the last government's measures to protect his friends in the banks and the City of London.
The Government is clearly pursuing its vision of an individualistic society where proper public services are replaced by volunteering and charity giving.
Monmouth SOS plans to set up a network of concerned individuals and organisations in order to highlight the impact of the cuts, the brutalisation of our society and to pose the alternative.
An opening meeting is to take place at the Queen's Head in Monmouth at 1pm on Saturday 8th January, when speakers on the dismantling of the welfare state and the alternative budget will lead the discussion. All are welcome.
Peter Short
(Monmouth)