DEAR EDITOR, - I see from your report, 'Herdsman's house row rumbles on' (July 20th), that Councillor John Davies, leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, dismisses my question relative to his planning application as 'mischief making'.

I can assure Cllr Davies and the electorate of Pembrokeshire that this is not the case.

I can also give the same assurance that it is not about the applicant, but is most certainly about the application.

Am I causing mischief by simply wanting to know what occurred between the April 13th, 2005, when the planning officer wrote to Cllr Davies's agent, and I quote from his letter, 'I would suggest that a gross floorspace of in the region of 115 to 140 square metres (1250 to 1500 square feet) would be more appropriate to the functional needs of the holding', and the planning meeting in May when the planning officer was quite happy to allow a building of 2,800 square feet, double the size of his original idea, to proceed without comment on size.

I would also like to know why Cllr Davies, who, in his maiden speech as leader, was committed to transparent and open government of the highest ethical standards, did not think it morally right to inform the planning committee of the disposal of the greater part of his herd by the time his application was being determined. Are these valid questions or are they mischief making?

I will let your readers decide.

Cllr Davies is also incorrect when he says it is the interpretation of one councillor. Nine councillors voted for Cllr Mike Stoddart's motion to overturn the planning decision.

I am only trying to keep fairness within the planning system and to make it a level playing field for all, regardless of their position in life.

TONY BRINSDEN Lib-Dem member for Amroth Norton Lodge, Llanteg.