I AM writing in response to the letters published regarding future candidates for Bolton South-east.

I am confused as to how this speculation has arisen, especially as there is potentially another three-and-a-half years before the Prime Minister is required to call a general election.

These comments are no more than flannel from a party that has absolutely nothing to say on substantive issues of policy.

This attempted meddling by Cllr Morgan and others in the affairs of the local Labour Party is both unnecessary and entirely unwanted. Following the performance of the Conservatives at the recent local and general elections, he would be advised to concentrate his efforts on his own party.

The members of the local Labour Party will select our candidate for the next election, not the local Tory councillors - who have themselves selected a typical career politician from Trafford Council to contest the Bolton West seat in the absence of any local talent.

We are proud of the fact that we currently have three Labour MPs representing Bolton, working hard to represent your views.

Moreover, we are honoured that the people of Bolton have put their faith in the Labour Party, and we intend to go on delivering improved services for the hardworking families that have voted us into power. We are not complacent, and understand what an honour it is to serve a great town like this.

Ruth Kelly is doing an excellent job as our local constituency MP, and it is a matter of pride for the town that, as one of our MPs, she is serving in the Cabinet as the Secretary of State for the Department of Communities and Local Government.

She should be allowed to carry on the excellent job she is doing without this unfounded speculation.

Cliff Morris, Chairman, Bolton West constituency Labour Party