Letter: Labour in a spin

Sir: You state: "Whatever one thinks of the unfortunate conduct of [Robin Cook's] private life, nothing in Mrs Cook's book should count against him in public office." (Leading article, 11 January.)

Public figures, especially politicians, have brainwashed the public to believe that behaviour in public life and in private life are not related. It is false. It is easier to deceive strangers than to cheat on your nearest and dearest. Elected public figures should tell the public about skeletons in their cupboards before the elections and let the public decide. Would you hire a liar and a cheat?

HUSSAIN RUSTAM

New Malden, Surrey