AS the parties finally publish their election manifestos, the public will be able to decide where to place their cross on the basis of facts instead of the wild accusations we get every day.

One of the important issues – indeed one that drove the Brexit referendum vote – was the thorny subject of immigration.

Some immigration is vital. Our NHS could not function without it.

But most immigration we have experienced does not contribute to public services, indeed it places extra demands upon them. It is inevitable that services have struggled to cope and some have crumbled under the pressure.

As we decide to which party we will lend our vote we should all consider the impact that more immigration will make on our schools, hospitals, housing, social and other important services.

D W Lacey, Durham.