Sir, – Benjamin Disraeli said the ideals of the Conservative Party were “the maintenance of our institutions, the protection of our Empire and the improvement of the conditions of our people”.

This government has lost the plot; acting in extreme haste and we will all repent for many years. As voters, we must seriously consider the May elections – it’s our first chance to halt the reckless slide.

As for the Big Society – humbug!

GEORGE HAYES Maison Dieu, Richmond.