THE exclusion of the Green Party from this year's televised election debates (Echo, Jan 9), the source of bitter argument at Prime Minister's questions yesterday, would deny everyone their right to hear a vital contribution to public debate.

Conservatives, Labour and LibDems have apparently lost any interest in threats to our environment, and Ukip never showed any interest in the first place.

All four of these parties are committed to ongoing austerity for the poorest and in our public services.

I have only ever voted Green, after hearing their leader speak in Durham in defence of our NHS.

If others hear the Green alternative, I believe they will vote for it in record numbers.

Is that why the Greens are the only major party being excluded?

J Scott, Darlington.