WHEN I arrived at York station for my commute on the 0658 to Leeds this morning, I was greeted by the charming sight of three shabbily-dressed men in their early 20s, swigging from bottles of cheap cider, singing, shouting and swearing. A policeman was standing on the opposite platform, but he ignored them.

My heart sank as they got on the same train as I did. At Leeds, they went on their (very) merry way, pausing only for one of them to offer the ticket inspector a Volkswagen salute before disappearing, somewhat unsteadily, up Albion Street.

Two criminal offences were committed: drunk and disorderly behaviour, and travelling without a ticket. The authorities were aware of both but chose to do nothing.

Contrast that with the teenage girl in Kent, who last week was invoiced for a fine of £50 by council officials, after leaving recycling materials beside an overflowing bin which they had neglected to empty.

Then there is the student from Accrington, who was issued with a £75 spot fine after momentarily putting his drinks can on the pavement while tying his shoe lace.

What does this tell us about New Labour's respect agenda'? That law-abiding citizens had better respect New Labour, or else. The yobs and hooligans, it seems, can carry on as they like.

Incidentally, it doesn't say much for Labour's environmental agenda, either; because as soon as I get off the waiting list for a parking permit at my new workplace, I won't be commuting by train again.

Leo Enticknap, Bootham, York.