THE words "good faith" have been sprinkled about excessively by Tony Blair to the point where the words have become devalued.

He has acknowledged serious mistakes and the consequences for citizens and the reputation of this country.

Blair's position as party leader and as a public representative is no longer viable.

He behaves like a president, but if subject to a popular mandate, might be surprised if the monkey romped home ahead of him.

He tries to shore up his power-base and market-Blairology by installing Mandelson as commissioner in Brussels through his "royal patronage" and family-man Milburn to promote what is now old hat in the next party manifesto.

In the first instance, with Blair and Mandelson effectively ambassadors abroad for this country, it's more like a Laurel and Hardy double-act and what a fine mess they're got us in.

Insisting vainly on staying put without popular support, Blair disenfranchises Labour supporters and waverers at the General Election.

The Tories took difficult leadership decisions. It is past time that the Labour party got its act together. The king has gone mad - affairs of state take precedence.

WENDY HANDS,

Upton upon Severn.