THE images of some politicians does little to help promote politics to a public which needs reassurance and responsibility from its elected members.

Recent reports and images in a Sunday newspaper of MEPs boasting how much they can claim does little to instil confidence, let alone offer a positive role model to young people.

Whether at Westminster or in Brussels, politicians have to be more accountable. The privilege of representing people is not about abusing that office. It is about making a contribution and, hopefully, affecting change for people - not screwing the system.

In the world of work, people earn on the basis of what they put into the effort. Some of our politicians put in the minimum and yet they can claim a high salary and expenses not verified by receipts.

What message does that give to a generation, some of whom believe that society and government owes them something?

Who can blame young people when those in the service of people are taking liberties? The rules for some, but not for all have to end if we are to take politicians seriously.

We urgently need systems in place to prevent further abuse.

Bernie Walsh, Coxhoe, Durham.