NOW that the CBI has dismissed Tory claims that there is a black hole in the Government's spending plans, the Conservatives must begin answering some questions, instead of ducking and diving away.

As the Financial Times said this week, by not answering "The Tories are pushing themselves towards absurdity."

Instead of avoiding this issue, it is high time William Hague told the British people whether he supports the Labour Government's extra £40 billion for schools and hospitals, or whether, in the words of his own Shadow Chancellor, Francis Maude, he regards the extra cash as 'reckless'.

The question is simple enough.

Frank Crompton,

Kennet Close, Westhoughton.

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