New political party needed (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

New political party needed

MR Scott's excellent letter (SA Oct 15) in which he calls for a new political party, while couched in humorous vein, hides I believe a casting of bait upon the political waters.

New Labour's huge majority is now I believe beginning to prove unhealthy in that there has become a lack of credible Parliamentary opposition to them.

A malaise has settled upon the opposition benches of endemic proportions for which they appear to have no answer.

All we hear from them is Blair this and Brown that, with carping, criticism and complaining. Never ever a mention of policies. Time for a history lesson.

When, in 1942 Gen Montgomery assumed command of the 8th Army one of the first things he did was to banish all reference to Rommel, arguing that to talk about Rommel's supposed exploits was defeatist, and that his men should concentrate upon the task before them.

"We will hit Rommel and his African Corps for six," he said and the 8th Army did just that.

Sadly the Tories and Lib Dems between them have become the Marks and Sparks of the political scene, their electorate base is crumbling and the new, younger folk are unsure of what they stand for.

It is however not only our political masters under threat, our State religion and yes, the monarchy itself all must be feeling uneasy and why not? Are those institutions so sacred they cannot change?

Whether we like it or not Europe is on the march, frontiers are breaking down while people's aspirations are rising.

I believe our Queen has done a good job but she is reaching the end of her reign.

I also believe people are beginning to question their right to privilege simply because they are born in the right bed.

If anyone doubts what I say, then just tune in to the Last Night Of The Proms.

See the fervour with which is sung Land Of Hope And Glory, Jerusalem and Rule Britannia.

Then note the stuttering offering when the National Anthem begins. Most people don't even know the words past the second line.

Is it not time for the Republicans to show their heads above the political parapet?

The only party showing gains are the UK Independents. Didn't Hitler fill a political vacuum?

J W FRANKLIN

Wootton Bassett