THE people of the country have to demonstrate – that's democracy. However, let's examine the evidence. The people who organised the first blockade – most of them – were staunch Tory voters, and let's make no mistake about that.
Although we all agree the cost of fuel at the pumps is extortionate, mainly due to the duty on fuel being much too high, a word of warning! Don't be taken in by these people, especially the farmers involved in this peaceful protest.
Just remember, the majority of them support fox hunting, hare coursing, stag hunting and other barbaric forms of blood sports. Then they turn around and whinge to the Government they are losing money and jobs. Well, jobs have been disappearing in manufacturing for the last 20 years.
I put this point to the farmers. Are they prepared to sell the 4x4 or the Mercedes for a much more economical vehicle? I think not, and they pay a lot less for a gallon of diesel.
The Road Hauliers Association, however, have presented a good case to the Government.
But how come the Road Hauliers Association never had the guts to make their feelings felt to Margaret Thatcher and bring the country to a near standstill when she was in power?
Also, what about the small businesses, the one man bands for instance, the greengrocer, the local off licence, the florist, a driving instructor, a plumber, and your local pub landlord, all of these business people could go against the wall and run the risk of losing everything?
To sum up, big businesses can afford to run the gauntlet, the small business people can't.
Yes, it's the same old story, let's wait until there's a Labour government in charge, and then it's easy. Blame it all on socialism, which only goes to show it's all a game of political football. – Dave Bowkett, Cinderford.