Filthy lucre

Having experienced the health service at close quarters for some considerable time, I have often wondered about the sanity and ethics of the politicians who preside over this envy of the world. We pay our politicians a handsome salary and, until recently, we’ve showered them with expenses, privilege and gold-plated pensions. You might expect that in return they would offer us honesty, hard work and integrity.

As is so often the case, reality offers a different picture. The news that four Labour MPs have been caught in a sting operation where they boasted at being able to influence government decisions and policy in return for cash.

Is it me or does the image of MP Stephen Byers demanding daily fees of £3000 - £5000 bring on a feeling of nausea? What sort of socialist is this man? Clement Atlee must be spinning in his grave to know that such vermin are sucking on the public teat.

It’s often said that Tories go for sex while Labour opt for money when it comes to scandals. Either way, they’re all crooked and have far too much time on their hands. What is it that stops us having decent representatives or do we get the politicians we deserve?