Sir – It is a relief we still have a free press and that the Witney Gazette has lodged an official complaint about more than a third of Witney Town Council meetings being closed to the public in the last year.

As a chairman of a parish council, I find it difficult to think of any matters that need to be kept secret from the public.

The same applies to town and district councils.

Explanations for the closed doors, such as commercial sensitivity and staffing issues, are not satisfactory.

If discussions are taking place concerning the property assets of Witney, it is of interest to the community. After all, the assets do belong to the community.

Similarly, staff are paid for by the taxpayer, who surely have the right to know how their taxes are being spent.

It could be that on very rare occasions, perhaps once a year, that confidentiality could be justifiable.

At the least a detailed explanation should be given, a vote taken by the councillors; both of which should be published.

Clive Cowen, Wychwood Cottage, Ramsden