YOUR leader described Steve Galloway's offer to the Labour leader Dave Merrett as a "canny move by Lib Dems" (May 6). I would think a better description would be "an insidious move by Lib Dems."

I agree that to get Dave to join them would help them lots, but the people of York chose the Lib Dems and abandoned 20 years of Labour rule, so let the Lib Dems get on with it. Local elections are always another way to let parliament know people are not happy - the war, the poll tax, or whatever.

I hope Dave will refuse to be involved with the Lib Dems as he will find that a large number of his own people will be let down.

I agree with your leader that the Lib Dems coming in from the cold after 20 years or more find that they need experienced help. But please Dave, step back and prepare to take over when they can't handle it.

Brian Rowan,

Fourth Avenue, York.

Updated: 10:24 Monday, May 12, 2003