How refreshing that David Gold, in the chapter he has written in the book A Blue Tomorrow - New Visions From Modern Conservatives, should advocate policies that reflect today's society (The Argus, October 3).

Marriage is not for everyone, so why should single people be penalised through the tax system, by married couples receiving an allowance?

Relationships come in various forms and it is high time everyone was treated as equal.

When treated the same, the problems and prejudgements disappear.

Mr Gold is showing how the Conservative Party is forward-looking and truly understands the diversity of our nation.

Barriers need to be broken down to set people free to be themselves and live their lives as they choose.

Why shouldn't unmarried couples, of whatever gender, celebrate their love and commitment for each other with a civil register?

For too long, politicians have tried to set the social trend of the country by saying one particular life- style is preferable.

Thank goodness for the new generation of Tories like David Gold.

With people like him in the Conservative Party, we can all look forward to being ourselves instead of being told what is best. We can be one nation again.

-Carol Ramsden, Ditchling Rise, Brighton