FREE speech, freedom of the Press and political correctness have all created a situation where nobody dares to express an opinion — quite the opposite of what was intended.

In the last fortnight I have attended three political hustings. When a question was put to the candidates, each one reeled off their party’s line on that subject — but never answered the specific question in case they let slip something that the media or the PC brigade picked up on, to embarrass them and their party.

After the first couple of meetings it was all very predictable — the NHS, the economy and schools all good examples. Occasionally an unexpected question came out of the blue which gave them all the chance to improvise.

If the candidates had been replaced by cardboard cut-outs fitted with their party’s recorded message, a similar outcome would have been achieved.

Leading up to an election I am sure any political correspondent could stand in for any candidate, of any party — and probably make a better job of it. I am glad I went, though.

Harvey Carter, Lower Darwen (via email)