THE recent fuel blockades -- and the overwhelming support they have had from the public -- prove just what a selfish and irresponsible society we live in today.

Led by right-wing farmers -- who have no reason to protest anyway, because they only pay 3.13p tax an a litre of diesel, while the rest of us pay 48.8p -- these 'bully boy' protesters really do know how to get their own way at the expense of the sick, the elderly and all the other vulnerable sections of the community.

They hypocritically allow tankers out to fuel essential services.

But what good are ambulances when paramedics, doctors, nurses and other vital staff cannot get to work?

Tony Blair has been given a golden opportunity. He should give these people what they want. He should listen to the voice of the people. He should slash fuel tax now -- and then retrieve the lost revenue by upping income tax, bringing us more in line with Europe.

And while he's at it, he should also slash the £3 billion annual subsidy given to farmers -- then they really would have something to protest about!

Brian Derbyshire

Ribchester Grove

Bolton