It has been brought to my attention that Paul Archer, former town clerk, and Newhaven Town Council have settled outside Employment Tribunal proceedings.

What is truly amazing is that the council is refusing to comment on the fact that a settlement has taken place and the financial implication to the council taxpayer.

An important principle is involved here - accountability when spending public money.

An attempt by timid Newhaven town councillors to hide behind a wall of silence will not work. They are spending our money, not their own.

The District Auditor is already seeking answers to three questions: Why was the town clerk suspended on full pay for six months? Why was he then sacked? What was the size of the original financial settlement?

I now add a fourth: What is this new financial settlement going to cost us council taxpayers?

-John Hodgson, Capel Avenue, Peacehaven