I read Mr Grant’s letter (Letters, December 23) about the UK being a lone agent and as the comments were directed at me I felt a need to reply.

First I would like to wish Mr Grant and all the Echo readers a very happy, healthy and content 2017.

My first point is about the House of Lords and successive governments, all of which have been made up of all political parties, be it Conservative, Labour, Liberal, or even UKIP - who seem to be blamed for leaving Europe.

I have to state, over the years I have voted for all the parties.

I would also like to add a statement about the House of Lords and the salaries they draw or do not draw. 

It is a fact that in 2014/2015 the cost was £21m, so I deduce someone in the House of Lords must have drawn considerable salaries.

Education: I say to you Mr Grant that successive governments have been responsible for changing the education system and I might add UKIP have not had a high majority in the government to be responsible for change but the poor eduction authorities have suffered so much interference that it was no wonder our education is dwindling and I reiterate it is unseen faces responsible for change by the constant whinging of the PC Brigade.

Mr Grant you seem to have an absolute belief in the EU and I respect your beliefs as well as my own but what is right for you is not right for others. In the 1970s when we voted to go into Europe - 68.2% for and 32.8% against - many did not want Europe but unlike today there was an acceptance and the country got on with the business of a functioning country. 

We are the second largest contributors and yet one of the smallest countries and I feel we have done our bit so to speak. 

For a big institution there is very poor management you only have to look at the poor border controls and how many poor souls are grieving due to freedom of movement. Do you really think this is acceptable?

I would also like to say there seems to be a lot spent on expenses and luxury transport, restaurants and hotels while the poor workers in this country pay for this through their taxes. 

Do you think this acceptable Mr Grant or are these points nothing to do with the EU?

A great deal more could be looked into, but I feel I will will not overstate what has already been said. 

My last statement is many countries abroad are patting our backs for a brave decision and look forward to future trade with our country. 

I am sure you have an answer for my letter Mr Grant, but I feel we have all said enough and should follow the 70s lead and get on with the business of running this wonderful country.

CHRISTINE CASSELL