STEVE Jones shows a lack of understanding about deficit and debt.

He is against austerity, but then complains about the Conservative government running up the largest debt in our history. The last Labour government left a huge debt and a deficit in the annual budget — in other words, we are spending more than we 'earn' (generate in taxes). Until we spend less than we earn each year, the debt will go up — so which do you want Mr Morris, a halt to the increase in debt, or an end to austerity? You can't have both!

Only a few months ago the electorate chose to continue austerity and eliminate the deficit — the debate is therefore over until the next election. The Letters page should be reserved for people expressing opinion on local matters, not national politics.

Mr Michael Houlston

Alderbank

Horwich