Hopes betrayed

I cannot share Alexander McKay's sympathy for those Labour MP's charged with fraud last week (Letters, 13 March). We often read of cleaners on the minimum wage who claimed benefits whilst working and are unceremoniously sent to prison as a result.

By The Newsroom

Published 15th Mar 2010, 20:15 BST

Updated 15th Mar 2010, 20:19 BST

Those poor people do not suggest to the judge that they shouldn't have to sit in the dock as these shamed politicians did, nor do they claim immunity from prosecution due to their status.

My father was fiercely pro-Labour and a staunch trade unionist all his life. He had no time for those who are elected to represent ordinary people and become corrupted by privilege. In 1997, I wept with undiluted joy as I watched New Labour sweep into power on a tidal wave of goodwill even from those who hadn't voted for them.

If they're re-elected this time, I'll cry again, but this time it will be with despair.

KAREN BURCHILL

Warrender Park Road

Edinburgh