Dear Editor,

I read Jesse Norman’s letter with interest and, of course he is entitled to defend himself from criticism. At the same time he is in the front line of public service as an MP and a minister, so criticism in current circumstances, with a precarious balance of power will come thick and fast, whether he likes it or not. Not all of it is untrue.

On more local issues, I recall he was interviewed by Hereford and Worcester whilst in York recently, commenting about money available for repairing pot holes ( the old old chestnut) in Herefordshire, I believe the figure was six million. In the past all too often good money was thrown after bad. Now, as Roads Minister, he won’t have to go far from home to recognise the massive problems on his own patch. I have lived in Linton for 30 years and during that time little or nothing has been done to the lane alongside my property. In fact it will revert to a farm track in fullness of time.

Has Herefordshire Council been strapped for cash all that time? I challenge Jesse Norman to come and see for himself and I am sure I speak for many other of his constituents with the same problem. I won’t hold my breath.

Ken Downham

Linton