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Michael Meadowcroft writes: The early death of Sir Simon Milton (obituary, 13 April) is probably an even greater blow for the local government cause than for his party. He perceived that the emasculation of the powers of the municipalities came from the political parties' preference for party battles rather than uniting against Westminster and Whitehall. Consequently, while chair of the Local Government Association, he set about building an all-party alliance as a sort of trade union for local government.
Following his departure to become one of Boris Johnson's deputy mayors, local government has suffered further blows. It would be the best tribute to Simon Milton if his campaign to unite all those concerned for local democracy were continued.
