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Anger over 'slur' on John Battle
I must take issue with the article by Rod McPhee (YEP, January 25) in which he sarcastically denigrates the contribution of John Battle MP in highlighting the problems of poverty and unemployment in Leeds.
As a former primary school headteacher in West Leeds, I know from personal experience the relentless efforts made by Mr Battle to highlight and combat both of these issues throughout his service in parliament. His consistent support for the disadvantaged of West Leeds, particularly over such issues as loan sharks, social injustice, and housing has been outstanding.
He has been a passionate promoter of business in West Leeds, freely devoting his time and energy to introduce, support and drive community initiatives designed to challenge and promote businesses to create and develop job opportunities for the less affluent people of that often neglected part of the city.
I do not share Mr Battle's politics, but I greatly admire his commitment in the areas of poverty and unemployment, and find the views expressed by Mr McPhee to be petty, ill-informed and ignorant, and a slur on a politician who has made a lasting contribution to West Leeds.
Pete Bell, by email
I first came into contact with John Battle and Colin Burgon around 30 years ago.
In all that time they have dedicated their lives to the Labour movement, campaigning on behalf of the ordinary man and woman, both inside and outside Parliament.
For Rod McPhee to accuse them of doing too little too late is to display his ignorance of their politics.
I wish Colin and John all the best for the future.
John Appleyard, Firthcliffe, Liversedge
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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