COUN Blanchard demonstrates the arrogance now so typical of the present Government in his disparaging remarks about candidates for the next election (Letters, April 16).

If democracy is to be reinstated, we must have some credible opposition parties. Although I do not subscribe to Conservative policies, I would maintain the right of anyone to challenge the sitting MP in a General Election.

Or perhaps Mr Blanchard prefers the one-party state?

After the Archbishop of Canterbury spoke out against the Blair regime - the decline of democracy, the lack of trust and honesty - we have to listen.

What we need is men and women of integrity and courage; integrity to stand by their principles, and courage to withstand the pressures of dissent.

Local issues are important and our present MP does the best he can.

But a member of Parliament is elected to the House of Commons to help make decisions that affect everyone in the country.

Finally, we need politicians who listen. Democracy is best served when it arises from the will of the people, not imposed from the top downwards.

Trudie Elliott,

Hopgrove Lane North,

York.

Updated: 11:48 Monday, April 26, 2004