Guildford Philharmonic – Explanations Needed

Published on: 10 May, 2012
Updated on: 12 May, 2012

From Name and Address Supplied

The letter from Alderman Gordon Bridger (‘GBC Scrutiny Committee Is the Right Forum for Decision on Orchestra‘ – 2 May 2012) states that the Chief Executive of Guildford Borough Council contacted potential witnesses to the Council’s Scrutiny Committee, to persuade them not to appear, because they might thereby be prejudiced.

The letter also states that misleading information has been published concerning the subsidies required by the Guildford Philharmonic Orchestra (GPO), making it appear more expensive than it is.The future of the GPO is vital to the cultural life of Guildford but the allegations made by Alderman Bridger go beyond concern for a proper decision-making process, regarding the future of the GPO. They imply behaviour of the Chief Executive, is close to blackmail and also also shows incompetence or bias in briefing councillors.

Councillor Tony Phillips and his colleagues on the Scrutiny Committee must surely now seek explanations from the Mr Hill. Accurate information about the GPO’s finances must be published and all relevant witnesses encouraged to participate.