In Defence of Tenant-Led Scrutiny

I would like to set the record straight with regard to this particular article. I am a member of the Salix Homes Customer Senate; the residents group to which the article refers. Whilst the jury may still be out with regard to the affairs of Hazel Blears MP, I feel that it should be stated that the position of Mr Colin Marchbank-Smith is not as clear-cut as this article suggests. Firstly, I must point out that the Senate is strictly a scrutiny body, and as such has no direct influence or charge over public (or otherwise) finances. The Senate exists to scrutinise the work of the ALMO (Arms Length Management Organisation) for the benefit of all of the tenants of Salix Homes. Colin works tirelessly for this particular body, for NO personal benefit or gain, as do all members of the Senate. Secondly, the media constantly inform the British public that the problem today is that criminals never truly repay their debt to society, and Colin Marchbank-Smith has done this, and continues to do this, not simply with a prison term, but also by continuing to serve wholeheartedly, a community to which he is an asset and not a liability. The position of Colin as Chair of the Senate, is testament to his knowledge and dedication. Thirdly, the social housing sector comprises a diverse cross-section of the population per se, and as such, if tenant-led scrutiny and regeneration are to be promoted, excluding those whom have broken the law in the past will result in exclusion and subsequent inequality for a significant percentage of the community.

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