WHEN any species presents a threat to the wider environment due to overpopulation, another species, often man, steps in to correct it.

So why is managing this delicate balance neglected when it comes to the very top of the food chain?

The global population is rising exponentially and will soon reach a crisis point.

The mathematics of how many humans mother Earth can nourish has no mercy and when that number is exceeded, a fight for survival will be inevitable.

Of course I am not suggesting a cull, merely that we take the issue into consideration when deciding on social and immigration policies.

Allowing unrestricted free movement delays the crisis by spreading the problem out; but in doing so the bubble continues to inflate.

If countries with excessively high birth rates were prevented from relieving population pressure by exporting it then they would have no choice but to follow China’s example and deal with the issue now while it is still manageable.

Resolving this and bringing numbers down slowly would alleviate the effects of famine, reduce environmental damage, allow us to have bigger homes, and prevent conflicts.

It may even allow our grandchildren to reach their Easter holiday destinations with some degree of punctuality.

I wonder if the political parties currently preaching in Micklegate ward about entitlements have the courage to also recognise responsibilities towards the wider picture?

Dr Scott Marmion, Woodthorpe, York