THE 28-28 "draw" between Conservatives and the Lib-Lab pact on the borough council following the elections makes for interesting times.

To my mind, there is one key consideration. Conservatives polled 50.5 per cent of the vote and Lib-Lab 45.2 per cent. Independent candidates polled the remainder. It is quite clear who has the popular mandate to control the borough.

As for the European elections, I fear Michael Howard was ill-advised to dismiss the UK Independence Party (UKIP) as "fringe" and "extremist".

MY VISIT to the Shrubbery Kindergarten last week was a fascinating experience. It was touching to see children so absorbed in their structured "learning through play" activities.

Principal Julia Wood's enthusiasm is contagious, but, sadly, I learn that not even nursery schools are free from the curse of our times - over-regulation, excessive bureaucracy and paperwork.

The Shrubbery is on the site of Queen Mary's Sixth Form College. It vividly illustrates how the college has become a focal point for wider community activity. The Central Studio is another example.

AND finally, I am supporting the Help the Aged campaign to extend entitlement to Disability Living Allowance to people who become ill or disabled over 65.