SIR – The Thatcher government only spent £31 out of each £1,000 of national income on science research and development. That was very low, especially compared with America, Japan or Germany.

That’s one of the key factors making for a more successful economy. The coalition is spending half of that, which is really bad for our country’s future.

This is one of several factors out of the control of Bradford Council (though it does shoot itself in the foot, especially with the Westfield saga).

I am extremely disillusioned with the Conservative party – they would rather give a £3,000 million tax cut to the richest, which will go abroad via a tax havens or imports.

Any chance of a peace time Churchill?

Trevor Hope, Harrogate Road, Eccleshill