I AM, as many will attest, an avid reader of the Swindon Advertiser, especially the weekly columns allocated to our two MPs and the leader of the council; I also enjoy my friend Graham Carter’s Monday column as he attempts to inject some much needed irony into our daily literary diets. While reading Justin Tomlinson’s column (Adver, August 7) I spluttered into my Rice Krispies when reading his statement: “The message is clear – our border is secure and there is no easy way into the UK.”

I imagine Justin’s view might have some traction with the Westminster set as they feed on croissants and coffee (what’s wrong with tea and toast?) in the comfort of Portcullis House, but his words will simply be laughed at by the vast majority of UK residents. In common with politicians across the country he talks about the £12m given to France as an investment; it isn’t, it’s a cost and expense. Gordon Brown was the most accomplished practitioner of the word investment when he meant spending – Justin is clearly following in his shoes, which is not a good thing.

Justin talks about measures being considered for the future and measures currently being taken, all of which sounds good but, and here is the rub, we have heard them before and by and large the nation is fed up with promises of action followed by the realisation that any action as proposed is illegal or unlikely to result in anything other than a headline.

Politicians are adept at making bold, expansive statements.

Sadly, the truth is that promises are made but not kept, assurances are given but they are not fulfilled.

Putting a finger in the dyke might stop a trickle but it offers precious little hope of preventing a flood.

DES MORGAN Caraway Drive Swindon