NO doubt our MP, Julie Kirkbride, with her appalling attendance record at the House of Commons, would prefer to hold a ministerial position in government, but her party, whether she likes it or not, is in opposition and she has a duty to take an active part in the democratic process.

Meanwhile, she is extraordinarily active in seeking publicity in the press, with accounts of her appearances at school events, fetes, jumble sales, performances of all kinds. This is very worthy but no substitute for the hard grind of opposition.

Now she is re-elected, may we hope for a more serious attitude to politics. She knew what was involved when she stood for Parliament.

Mrs D Watts,

The Longlands,

Barnt Green.