I HOPE that the Prime Minister will call off any possibility of a May General Election. With the nation in the grip of the foot and mouth epidemic, why have an election in May when it could well wait?

In terms of practicalities, I dare say that a May election would be possible. Postal votes could be used and other arrangements could be made for those trapped by rules restricting movement. But, although it would be practically possible, a May election would show a lack of compassion for those involved.

The foot and mouth outbreak has been traumatic for those who are in danger of losing their livelihoods. It has also been devastating for those farmers who have lost livestock. Just watching your sheep and cattle burn on a pyre must be painful in the extreme.

And we need to think of the animals too. Human beings are called upon to respect and care for animals. In our failure to care on such a massive scale, we ought to mourn their loss.

Rather than have a general election in May, it would be better if the Prime Minister called for a national day of mourning. This would show respect and solidarity with the rural community, and it would show our sorrow over the slaughter of so many healthy animals.

When we are faced with losses, psychologists tell us that we need to go through a process of mourning. Such a time of mourning helps us to adjust to our loss and begin to move forward. If this process is frustrated, then all sorts of anger and bitterness get stored up for the future. The farming community, and the nation, needs time to adjust to its terrible loss. A May election would not help at all.

So, please, Tony, call off the election now.

Michael Williams