Letters: June 25, 2016

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Cameron opts to Leave

THE results of the EU Referendum will have pleased many while leaving others very disappointed, such is the nature of politics and democracy as practised in the UK.

In March of this year the prime minister was asked whether he would resign in the event of a vote for Leave and he answered in his typically unequivocal manner with a single word – No.

In May he said much the same thing.

However, we have come to accept that for Mr Cameron, a vow, a promise, a pledge and a “no ifs, no buts” assurance is only an “ambition” and should not be regarded as anything more serious.

The same now applies when he says “No” as he demonstrates with his latest flounce appearing in Downing Street to bid adieu to the people of the UK and announce his decision to resign as prime minister.

Should we be surprised? I suppose by now the British people should be conditioned to politicians saying one thing and meaning another, with mendacity being their stock in trade.

Having been the mendicant in his supposed EU negotiations, which the British people saw for what they really were; a bowl of thin gruel, it could be said he has acted honourably in falling on his sword.

He will leave office bolstered by a substantial past prime minister’s pension, office expenses and a government car and driver for life.

Doubtless he will be snapped up by various companies who will value his connections and, like his predecessor, will add to his already substantial fortune.

Mr Cameron voted Remain but chose Leave

DES MORGAN

Caraway Drive, Swindon

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Sun shines on EU result

I’D LIKE to make a comment on the EU referendum result.

I woke up yesterday having just returned from Europe watching football at Euro 2016.

The British people have spoken. I’m absolutely delighted our nation has decided to leave the EU.

It’s a momentous day in our history. It shows we are so lucky to live somewhere in the world where democracy allows us an opportunity to vote on issues such as this. I’m proud to be English and British too.

The sun shines as I write this letter. It feels fantastic and, irrespective of your political preference, the politicians have a duty to the people of the UK to take this matter forward.

The UK is a major player in Europe and the world. I feel the shackles have finally been taken off. We can stand up with our chests pushed out. Britain is made up of a proud group of nations, one who can now stand alone in Europe and the world.

This result could have a domino effect which may lead to the break up of European Union. Let them get on with it. The people of the UK have made their mind up.

I’m over the moon that we have decided to get out and go alone.

ALAN WILSON

Shapwick Close, Swindon

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The people have spoken

DEMOCRACY reigns, the people have spoken. Areas of the UK that have benefitted from EU funding voted to remain, areas with large immigrant populations have voted to leave.

The people of Northern Ireland have made a terrible mistake and have given Sinn Fein a tremendous boost.

What do we do now? Build a wall or razor-wire fence between Ulster and the Republic?

Are we facing another Scottish referendum?

Sorry to say but Mr camerons position is now untenable make way for ids

Can we rejoin the European free trade association after 43 years absence?

The working classes and council estates have sent the government a timely message.

MATTHEW MARRS

Ely Close, Toothill, Swindon

Heading here

NOW we shall see exactly how much hot air was in the alarmist predictions made by the Prime Minister and his foolish Chancellor.

THAD LORING-LEE

Swindon

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Three strikes at surgery

ALTHOUGH I completely empathise with strain put on GP surgeries, I still find the situation regarding mine, Abbey Meads Medical Practice, completely infuriating.

As someone who can’t drive and also works from Monday to Friday 9am-5pm, it’s highly impractical/unprofessional for me to waltz out of work in the middle of the day, due to the practice’s Book On The Day appointment scheme.

This means a number of appointments are available each day and they can only be booked on the day and they can only be booked by telephone or in person.

And it gets worse, when you ring up you’re asked quite personal questions regarding the nature of your appointment by receptionists.

Sorry, if you’re not a GP I’m not going to want to discuss my health with you am I?

For those on medication that requires a consultation every couple of months (like myself) and who aren’t granted repeat prescriptions due to the nature of the medication this proves a stressful situation.

You have to hope your workplace is lenient enough to let you go if you’re lucky enough to get an appointment.

This system was introduced because patients weren’t turning up to pre-booked appointments and there’s an apparent shortage of GPs.

Here’s an idea, introduce a three-strike system, if a patient pre-books an appointment and doesn’t turn up more than three times, strike them off your list.

Free up space for people who truly need the service and actually use it correctly.

Even last week, as I was sitting there waiting, the number of people who did not show up for their appointment was shocking. Just goes to show, doesn't it?

NAME AND ADDRESS SUPPLIED

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Pothole app-urtunity

I HAVE an app on my phone which records steps when my wife and I go out walking but recently while driving along Akers Way I watched the step-counter record each and every pothole.

Surely this must be a good reason to get the repairs done quickly as I’m recording steps when not actually walking and kidding myself that I’ve completed my 10,000 a day.

EDWARD HARRISON

Holmleigh, Swindon