DO local MPs read local newspapers, or do they take note of what voters write? If they did, there would be no need for the Home Secretary to arrange for an additional £43 million to be spent - wasted - on the Prison Service. If those being sentenced are increasing in numbers, then the deterrent is failing. Talk about being tough we have heard from former Home Secretaries is a joke.

We read day by day of the disbelief of victims, and of the judiciary and also MPs making excuses for criminals' actions.

Another problem, it would seem, is the increasing number of the elderly. But is money available for their needs? No!

But then what have they done to deserve it? They worked hard all their lives for wages in pence and shillings. Many served in the forces and are now suffering the effects of injuries and disease sustained during those years.

When inflation over the years is taken into consideration they are still being awarded the same, while those in Parliament who would have us believe they serve us, receive a salary which amounts almost to twice the weekly basic pension - per day.

This Government boasts it will be fair and just. When will we see that implemented?

Regarding my opening remarks, when will it re-introduce corporal and capital punishment, which would reduce prisoner numbers.

J ROBINSON, Hurstwood Avenue, Blackburn.

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