BEING attacked by both New Labour and tired Tories (Shuttle, May 17) is nothing unusual for the Liberal Democrats. It goes with the territory.

As a long-serving party activist, I am proud of our decision to step aside from the Wyre Forest affray to allow Dr Taylor a clearer run at taking his argument to Parliament.

I don't expect political opponents to understand but the Liberal Democrat decision to support Dr Taylor - and all those deeply anxious about the hospital's downgrading - was taken as a matter of principle not expediency.

Nor was that decision taken lightly. It was rigorously debated -- locally, regionally and nationally - over many months.

While it is puzzling, the Tories' sudden concern for Lib Dem voters is nevertheless welcome.

It is also unnecessary. We are a particularly resilient breed and well able to understand that, just sometimes, we must constrain our party considerations. Now is such a time.

JOCK GALLAGHER

Ribbesford

(Full address supplied)