Letter: Yes, Mr Portillo, we're cynical - but only about politicians

THANK you for printing Michael Portillo's speech in full. It is important that we see the shallow and half-baked thinking going on in the Cabinet.

Respect has to be earned - the putting on of uniform or office does not automatically entitle a person to respect.

There is no conspiracy abroad: it is just that the people of this country have a clearer view of Mr Portillo and his colleagues.

Debbie Reavell

Basingstoke