ONE does not need a degree in advanced mathematics to understand that when 43 per cent of the county council's performance claims are inaccurate, there is something wrong in the state of County Hall affairs.

When the Audit Commission furrows its brow and questions 28 per cent of future predictions, it signifies that those words known to many a schoolboy and schoolgirl -- "must do better" -- would not be out of place.

The Oxford Mail has been castigated recently by some people in County Hall for telling the truth about the financial chaos. One prominent member of the administration even suggested we were responsible for the Conservatives losing the Thame by-election.

While we believe we have some influence, our ego will not be blown out of proportion by such an outrageous suggestion. We would not insult the electorate's intelligence by suggesting they could not read the writing on the wall and were incapable of making up their own minds.

It is in no-one's interest to paint a gloomier picture than necessary, but it would have been blatantly dishonest to tell our readers that all was well when it clearly was not.

But just as God welcomes a repentant sinner, so we are pleased that the chief executive, Dr Richard Shaw, is leading a programme to address the council's admitted shortcomings.

We are sure he is the right man for the job and that the necessary adjustments in the county engine room will make it run smoothly and efficiently in the days ahead.

We look forward to these -- for the sake of electors and the elected alike.