While we never like to hear that lifelong supporters of the Conservative Party feel unable to remain members, we are very disappointed to learn of Mrs O Butler's decision to "resign her membership" (Letters, November 18).

This is, in part, because we cannot find any record of her ever joining the Conservative Party.

As a "lifelong member", we would at least have enjoyed her financial contributions and, presumably, her keen activism in election campaigns and in opposing the Government locally and nationally.

I am sure the Conservative Party will withstand the knock, especially as in recent weeks we have processed more than a dozen new membership applications from people who do genuinely support our policies and new sense of direction.

Councillor Barnard-Langston is very welcome to Mrs Butler's support. Much like her rhetoric, this gesture is empty and pointless.

-Ed Faulkner, Agent, Brighton and Hove Conservatives