I feel validated by Zoe Williams saying “You must do the dirty work, but not get dirty” (They say Andy Burnham is ‘good at politics’ and Starmer was bad. That’s not trivial – it could be crucial, 2 July). I have been a political activist all my adult life. In earlier years I did duty for my party as a parliamentary candidate in hopeless northern seats, more latterly serving on Bradford city council. When others have told me that politics is a dirty business, my stock response has been: “That’s why I am in it.” The trick is not so much trying to keep my conscience clear in the face of all manner of contradictions as identifying others who have lived up to Zoe’s mantra. It’s called inspiration.
Geoff Reid
Worsbrough, South Yorkshire
• I’m fed up with inane use of the word “perfect” (Letters, 29 June). It’s usually the result of giving the person my name or address or order. Is my name actually perfect? Recently, before ordering our food at a restaurant, the waiter asked if there were any allergies. Yes, my friend said, severe nut allergy. To which the waiter replied: “Perfect!”
Dexter Rudling
Cheshunt, Hertfordshire
• The “pie floater” that Melanie Hewitt refers to (Letters, 30 June) sounds very like an antipodean version of a Yorkshire speciality: a Yorkshire pork pie, topped with mushy peas and a generous garnish of mint sauce. Delicious.
Roy Miller
Staines-upon-Thames, Surrey
• Looking at the disastrous financial decisions by many local authorities, am I the only one who is not so keen on greater devolution of public spending (Report, 29 June)?
Peter West
London
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