AT THE John Hunt of Everest Community School last Friday, I was, once again, immensely impressed by the enthusiasm and commitment of headteacher Lesley Phillipson and her staff.

Selfishly, I regret that I shall have retired as MP before the school moves to its new site. Potentially, this is one of the most exciting developments in secondary schooling in Basingstoke for many years.

I passionately believe in community schools. John Hunt of Everest's new start will provide a wonderful opportunity for an even fuller expression of the concept.

THE parliamentary shenanigans last week, leading to the criminalising of hunting, had little to do with animal welfare.

As Labour MP Peter Bradley honestly admits: "Now that hunting has been banned, we ought at last to own up to it - the struggle was not just about animal welfare and personal freedom. It was class war." (The Sunday Telegraph, November 21).

I hope the local pro-hunting community will inform me of the protests they will be organising.

I wish to take part. I detest the hatred, ignorance and prejudice which has led to this state of affairs.

I SPEND much time dealing with the Child Support Agency on behalf of constituents.

It is absolutely right that parents without care should contribute financially to the maintenance of their children but the system is failing abysmally.

Perhaps the resignation of the CSA's chief executive will improve matters, but I have my doubts.

Perhaps more thought should be given to transferring responsibility for collecting maintenance to the Inland Revenue.