YOUR correspondent of July 8 who believes the endemic theft of valuable metals began in 2010 must have done a Rip Van Winkle for 13 years.

In similar vein the collapse of world banking in 2008 merely exacerbated the already perilous state of our economy where year on year, we borrowed billions more than we earned.

Where public sector employment doubled whilst manufacturing declined. Where in one northern city 70 per cent of the workforce were paid out of the public purse.

Now, desperate situations needs drastic measures. Let us hope the present government does not listen to the siren songs of the left.

RAY ARROWSMITH, Newcombe Road, Bournemouth