THE by-election in Crabbs Cross gives the electorate of the ward an ideal opportunity to send a message to Tony Blair that he might just listen to.

The Government refuses to listen to mass protests. The Prime Minister even ignores his own MPs.

What he does take notice of, however, is votes in the ballot box. Look at the publicity gained by the success of the extreme right in northern England. Local by-elections can be significant.

Nobody expects the Conservatives to win. Their party is divided both nationally and locally.

It is the Labour party that expects to win. That is why they called this election less than one month before the scheduled election in May.

By voting Liberal Democrat, the only party that is opposed to the headlong dash to war with Iraq, the electorate of Crabbs Cross can send a message that will be heard.

Whatever your political persuasion, I urge you to vote Liberal Democrat on April 3. I urge you to support the United Nations and vote for peace.

Councillor Nigel Hicks

Jays Close

Winyates Green