OUR industry, NHS, railways, airports, schools and publicly-owned land is being sold and there seems no end to this debacle.

Thousands of our workforce are made redundant, jobs and employees are very insecure and we are becoming a nation of puppets and, seemingly, our hands are being tied behind our backs.

The media one day is alerting us to dangers and the next day another headline. Most of us do not understand the intricacies - it would need an economist to explain in simplistic terms. Also, the twists and turns involving the players, eg councils and government bodies.

I salute the Daily Echo for persevering and making us aware of plans, events and the shortcomings of our council and planning departments and not giving up until it is right. The Daily Echo enables readers to have a forum, for which I am indebted to you.

Chancellor Gordon Brown is smiling because the economy is in great shape - the family silver is gradually being sold off and eventually the tail will wag the dog! But he will be long gone when our country is economically bankrupt and the investors, industrialists will be the dark shadow behind the elected Government - I wonder is it now with us?

J MOORBY (by e-mail).