P. Jackson (Opinion, July 19) seems to be trying to rewrite history. Most people under 30 will be unaware of the strikes, intimidation and general air of despair which prevailed during the late 1970s, referred to as the winter of discontent.

The trade unions destroyed Labour and the Callaghan government and created the conditions for Margaret Thatcher's victory.

It took Prime Minister Tony Blair to remove the hard left from power and create a credible, alternative government.

The shame and blame is on the hard left and their strident supporters who I suspect even now are plotting to bring down New Labour and will surely drive the electorate to an alternative party.

But for how long this time?

-K. Bankes, Manor Drive, Cuckfield