Many people will today be surprised to read that £3m of taxpayers' money has been used for keeping silent staff who have been sacked, made redundant or left in other circumstances.

That is a lot of money that could have potential been spent fixing our roads and keeping the streets clean.

So-called gagging orders are by their very nature secretive - yet while generally they are not favourable, we do do recognise that there are times when they are necessary. There can be many reasons behind why an employee leaves and a quick settlement may sometimes be the best way to resolve an issue, instead of an ongoing legal battle which might cost the taxpayer even more.

Nevertheless for councils seeking to be open and transparent, they should be a last resort.