Election is time to build a nation for all to be proud of

But how many people will bother to vote?

There is deep cynicism about politicians and the political system: "non-doms" and expenses claims, etc.

As more and more laws are passed to try to deal with the problems that arise from our human failings, we are characterised as a "nanny state".

No one wants to hark back to the past, but what has happened to the creativity and daring in our people that enabled us to lead the world into the industrial age, bring in radical social reforms, found the National Health Service, subdue tyranny, and run huge financial markets on the spoken word of trust?

It is no good just relying on politicians to turn things round.

There is a saying that we get the politicians we deserve.

We need to start living out the values we want to see in our country, perhaps beginning with the following:

I expect my MP to be honest: I will be honest in all my dealings, including tax and expenses claims;

I want to see an end to personal attacks and character assassination in Parliament: I will treat my neighbours and colleagues with respect and never gossip about them;

I want Britain to be responsible for its carbon footprint: I will take steps to reduce mine.

Britain needs a purpose beyond our own economic recovery: we need to care for the needy nations of the world, even if it means tightening our belts at home;

Broken family relationships are destabilising our communities: I will value my own family life.

We have the chance to build a nation of which we can be rightly proud.

Jeanne Faber

Arundel

NOTE: All letters must include a name and address for publication.

-----------------------------

Click here to return to Gazette letters.

Where are you? Add your pin to the Herald's international readers' map by clicking here.

Email the Gazette: [email protected]

Want to read this page in French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Urdu or 48 other languages? click here for Google translate.