SIR: There is something unreal about the present election campaign, particularly as far as the Labour Party is concerned (after all we know what the Conservatives have done and will do).

Some issues, usually those where there is little difference between the two major parties - education, law and order and tax - are peddled vigorously; those where differences exist - devolution, the Social Chapter and the minimum wage - are not given the same emphasis, suggesting that the leadership is not enthusiastic about them and that, for instance, the minimum wage will probably be set as low if the party gets into power, as Mr Blair can get away with.

On Defence, though, there is a short section in the manifesto. It is increasingly clear that a Labour government which sticks to Conservative policies on income tax and public expenditure will govern in terms of Conservative priorities.

Though a Christian and a former member of CND, Mr Blair has gone on record as being prepared to use nuclear weapons and did so without any apparent awareness that there were serious moral issues involved. He just wanted to appeal to the Conservative voter.

Malcolm Pittock

St James Avenue, Breightmet

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