Voters who are attracted to Reform UK – the poorer ones, not the millionaires who control the party – are concerned about the cost of living and immigration and its effects on employment, GP appointments, etc (‘I like Nigel Farage’: Runcorn and Helsby byelection could be big test for Starmer, 15 March). Some have decided to take a punt on Reform UK as they feel they have nothing to lose and it is the only party offering an alternative.
That alternative should be Labour, but with its refusal to discuss immigration in a meaningful way, its apparent desire to recreate austerity, to cut benefits for ill and disabled people, having already cut the winter fuel allowance, and its refusal to raise money by cutting tax allowances for the rich, the party seems to have ruled itself out.
To be the truly transformational government we all wish for and beat Reform UK, taxes, particularly on the wealthy, need to go up.
Phil Tate
Chester
• While few would doubt that Mike Amesbury’s deplorable assault of a member of the public made his position untenable, your editorial (16 March) correctly points out the importance of this byelection. Electors who feel excluded from decision-making may disregard the administrative chaos of Reform UK and focus on the ever-increasing cost of living and shortage of social housing. A demagogic candidate may successfully use these concerns to tap into the belief that the three major political parties are oblivious to the problems faced by many.
Labour, the Liberal Democrats and moderate Tories should come together in Runcorn under a moderate candidate with an efficient and very visible campaign.
Keeley Cavendish
Dulwich, London
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