SIR: Few would have believed that within a few hours of the triumphant atmosphere of the Conservative Party Conference with its "Unity, unity, unity" battle cry an elected Conservative Member of Parliament would have joined the Liberal Democrats.

Peter Thurnham has said that this Government "has forfeited the trust and respect of the British people". Strong words indeed for a man whom many supporters and opponents alike regard as being decent and honourable.

Peter Thurnham had indicated a desire to campaign on Liberal Democrat policy in pursuit of a fair and just society, unlike some politicians whose ultimate goal is power at any price.

Many other disaffected Conservatives who, along with Mr Thurnham, acknowledge the Liberal Democrats commitment to local communities, and support their powerful promise to fund education as the nation's first priority, may also wish to join the Liberal Democrats in Bolton.

Cllr C R Swarbrick (Mrs)

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