• IN difficult times the people expect leadership, empathy, and support for the national interest.

With the prime minister having shown none of these over the last month or so, it was heartening to see Sir Keir Starmer provide all in his address to the nation on Monday evening.

In substance and tone, Sir Keir connected with a country whose trust in Boris Johnson and his government has hit rock bottom.

Contrast Sir Keir dutifully self-isolating no fewer than five times during this pandemic, while the government defended Dominic Cummings and defended the parties.

The people are tired of this “one rule for us, another rule for them” culture which has engulfed the government. I for one, am hopeful that a Sir Keir Starmer premiership will restore values of decency and integrity to our public life.

LIAM MARTIN-LANE, WC1