IN last week's Bury Times, we were informed that the Green Party is not contesting Bury North, but its would-be candidate is now supporting the Labour Party.

Similarly, the Liberal candidate who is putting up in Bury North has advised Liberal supporters to vote Labour, which seems to be an insult to Liberal voters who wish to vote for their own party, even if it is not likely to win.

It also seems highly patronising given that the Liberal candidate lives in Somerset.

Why did he bother seeking selection as the candidate here if he does not want people to vote for him?

I seem to recall he gave this advice two years ago.

It is difficult to envisage many Liberal-minded voters opting for a Corbyn/McDonnell-type Labour Party with its support for Marxism and Nationalisation, never mind Hamas and the IRA.

It might be easier if Mr Baum simply joined his local Labour Party down in the West Country.

By the way, Mr Southworth tells us Mr Frith lives in Bury North, but so does Mr David Nuttall.

Mr Southworth also attacks David Nuttall for having "the reputation of a loyal Party man".

Could I moderate this criticism? David has been recognised and respected as a highly independent MP for seven years.

I do not think the party whips would recognise Mr Southworth's description. He has been prepared to speak out and vote according to his conscience on a range of issues, including Brexit before it became such a popular topic.

David has been elected to represent us in Parliament and he has done that with diligence and integrity.

Cllr Roy E Walker

Church Ward