OUR caring, sharing Government likes us to think it's listening to our concerns.

Last year, it launched a consultation exercise called The Big Conversation, which encouraged us to express our views on anything from the health service to the economy.

But it turns out this conversation is rather one-sided.

Yesterday was the perfect occasion for Tony Blair to find out what really concerns the people of Worcestershire when he visited an outdoor education centre in Upton Warren, near Droitwich.

So we went along for a chat.

Why is the county getting a raw deal in terms of Government cash? we asked the Prime Minister.

Why are the good burghers of Worcestershire having to fork out ever increasing amounts of council tax?

No answer.

Earlier this month, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister said the Government would listen to representations from Worcestershire about unfair funding.

But it seems Tony Blair only hears what suits him.

"Time was fairly tight and he was keen to speak to children and staff," was how a spokesman excused yesterday's failure in communication.

We suspect the Prime Minister simply chose to ignore a difficult subject when on a publicity tour.

So, Mr Blair, when are you going to stop paying lip service to dialogue and really start listening to the people who elected you?

Hello? Is anyone there?