March 11 letters: We need MPs who work in the world outside Westminster

THE latest scandal has prompted a wave of condemnation of MPs who have second or third jobs. I am in a minority because I do not believe that there should be a ban on MPs earning additional income from whatever source.

Of course being paid for exercising improper influence ‘under the radar’ is wrong and should be dealt with severely.

A complete ban would cut off MPs from valuable experience and contact with other walks of life which could be brought to bear and enrich their work in Parliament.

It is undeniable that there class-based opposition flavoured with a touch of envy, but the country needs representation from those who have succeeded in other fields than politics.

From: Margaret Singleton, Farlington, York.

I KNOW that I am not alone in believing that Anne McIntosh is and has been an exemplary MP, whose dedicated commitment at both local and Parliamentary level are greatly appreciated and recognised by all. In spite of certain events, she has continued to faithfully assist anyone who has asked for her help. She is an MP of the people. Let’s be honest – a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, and Anne McIntosh has never been Thirsk and Malton’s weakest link.

From: Hugh Rogers, Messingham Road, Ashby.

THE desperation of the Labour leader to appear on television is almost comical. By offering to be interviewed on his own, he demonstrates clearly that he is not really interested in debate. Jumping up and down accusing David Cameron of being running scared when he refuses to play Ed Miliband’s schoolboy games is hardly the statesmanlike reaction of someone who would like to represent Britain as our Prime Minister for the next five years.

Even the left-leaning BBC knows very well that it cannot interview Miliband without Cameron for fear of breaching the BBC charter, which demands even-handedness.

From: Alan Davies, Heathfield Court, Grimsby.

IN a discussion involving only two participants, it is possible for each to examine the other in some detail, setting out strengths and probing weaknesses. With a half a dozen or so it becomes almost impossible. This is why I would prefer at least one election debate between the PM and the Leader of the Opposition.