Third-class MPs

I note the comment by the Conservative MP Sir Nicholas Winterton that he has the right to claim taxpayer funded trips in first class because passengers in standard class are "a totally different type of people", (your report, 19 February). I agree, as those travelling in standard class are basically decent, honest and hard-working.

Perhaps Sir Nicholas should remember that at the beginning of the 20th century the Caledonian MacBrayne steamers, which sailed between the Scottish mainland and the islands off the west coast, had a notice re 3rd class cabin accommodation that read: "This cabin has accommodation for 90 Third Class passengers when not occupied by sheep, cattle, cargo or other encumbrances." I would suggest the majority of the electorate could be persuaded to fund third-class cabin accommodation for MPs.

THOMAS L INGLIS

Menzies Avenue

Fintry, Stirlingshire