SIR — The old saying that ‘leopards can’t change their spots’ was perfectly demonstrated by HCC this week.

Their reputation for extravagance was reinforced by the revelation of the £11,500 luncheon/meeting they held at the Botley Park Hotel, all at taxpayers’ expense.

The puerile justification by the council’s spokesperson, was so wafer thin that it is difficult to take seriously.

The effects of recession on Hampshire, which ironically was discussed at the gathering, has done nothing to dim HCC’s fixation that only the best will do (for themselves).

The purpose of the meeting was laudable, but the arrangements for it were totally inappropriate in today’s cash-strapped climate.

It seems incredible that the £40m ‘refurbished’ Ashburton Court was unable to accommodate such a meeting, at significantly lower cost.

Take out the lunch and the agenda would fit into working hours.

But who can resist a free lunch? With local elections safely behind them, I suppose our Conservative-led county council could revert to ‘business as usual’, with a little self- indulgence.

Conservative leader David Cameron’s call for thrift, earlier this year, cuts no ice with our self-styled Senator/councillors.

An extravagant mind set, like the leopard’s spots, is not easily changed.

It would be interesting to know how many of those who attended the luncheon went on to claim travelling expenses.

If so, the total cost of the day for the taxpayer would well exceed the £11,500 quoted.

It is little wonder that Senator/councillor Thornber refused three requests to reveal the cost to the public for his little junket.

Such behaviour does nothing to restore the public’s trust and respect for our local government, which appears to be so far removed from, and insensitive to, the feelings of those they claim to serve.

No doubt Senator/councillor Thornber will brush aside such objections as a minor irritation, and offer more conciliatory explanations in next week’s Chronicle. Watch this space!

Till then, and probably after, as the stewards of taxpayers’ money, I say shame on you! Hampshire deserves better than this.

A Fyfe (Mr), Harestock Road, Winchester.