IF we needed proof that today's Conservative Party is attracting interest from all sides of the political spectrum, we now have it.

I am delighted that the current Labour MP for Pendle is trying to influence who we choose as our candidates for the European elections in 2009.

However, if he wishes to vote in that selection, he must be a paid up member of the party.

Clearly, Gordon Prentice is concerned that Sajjad Karim's decision to switch from the Liberal Democrats to the Conserv-atives is the first of many. I am happy to confirm that he is.

We have signed up many new members following Sajjad's decision. If Mr Prentice would like to be the next, membership forms are available from our campaign centre in Pendle.

ANDREW STEPHENSON, Pendle Conservative Association, Cross Street, Nelson.