Neil Mercer’s letter accurately disposes of HG Smith’s contention that UKIP has fresh ideas, pointing out that it is run by millionaires for the benefit of millionaires.

There is nothing new in scapegoating immigrants for problems they have nothing to do with. All the established parties have always done it.

From before the 1905 Aliens Act, passed to blame Jews for problems caused by pro-business, anti-worker policies, all the established parties have hoped ordinary people will squabble over crumbs so the rich can take the cake.

In the 1964 election even more Labour candidates reportedly made an issue of immigration than Tory candidates.

But I wanted to touch on a couple of H G Smith’s other fantasies. The one about something he believes is some kind of isolated “island race” is particularly hilarious.

Even before the modern period, arrivals of Celts, Anglo Saxons, Vikings, Roman troops, traders and so on made this island one of the most ethnically mixed in Europe.

Continual movement in and out (through much of the 19th and 20th century more out than in) has continued in this respect.

Then H G Smith says anyone thinking immigration has not affected treasury funds is in a dream world.

Immigration has benefited treasury funds, as repeated serious studies demonstrate.

Reading H G Smith’s letters always make me think the island he dreams of looks more like Alcatraz than Britain.

Peter Smith Woodside Avenue, Swindon