I DON’T always agree with George Dunning, just as I don’t expect him to agree with me.

As he leaves the Labour Party I return to it in the hope that the authentic voice of Labour as I understand it will hold sway and can be returned and convincingly promoted.

I am, however, pleased he is still engaged with political and social affairs and obviously still cares.

On the potash mines I agree that with thought and imagination jobs will be created and at the same time the undoubted beauty of the Yorkshire countryside retained.

There are times when what can descend into conflict and acrimony can be transformed so everyone wins.

Whether I agree with what he says or not I hope he continues to give us his views.

The essence of democracy is forthright debate and wanting to change reality to make it better.

G Bulmer, Billingham