I WAS interested by Councillor Don Rishton's reference to Robert Tressell's book 'The Ragged Trousered Philanthropist' (LET, November 22).

Many years ago, this was required reading for aspiring Labour politicians at all levels.

Except for those of us who lived through the harsh days of the depression between the wars, few today would appreciate the content of this excellent book.

One wonders what the workmen depicted by Tressell would make of the majority who now make up 'New Labour.'

Most are from soft, white-collar jobs, many in the public sector and few from the ranks of those who toil and spin.

Furthermore, they give the impression of supercilious arrogance. They know best.

But then, with role models such as the arrogant lobbyist Derek Draper, the Prime Minister's bombastic press secretary, Alistair Campbell and others now running the 'new' Labour party, one can expect little else.

Sad to say, the Tories and the Liberal Democrats are no better. A pox on all their houses, say I.

J FIELDING (Mr), St Cecilia Street, Great Harwood.

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