Sir - The EU imposed further legislation on the UK on Septemver 1. We are no longer allowed to manufacture or import vacuum cleaners above 1600 watts, so such favourites as “Henry” and some of the very British “Vax” range will be unavailable. Unfortunately 5 of the 7 “Best Buy” models highlighted by “Which” magazine since January 2013 exceeds this 1600 watt limit

This maximum wattage will be further reduced to a mere 900 watts by 2017, so it will take longer to gather the same amount of fluff off the carpet! Doesn’t this rather defeat the EU objective of saving electricity?

And there’s more!

Hairdryers, lawn mowers, smart phones, and electric kettles could be next to go on the EU reduced wattage list. Hairdressers risk getting Repetitive Strain Injury by holding the hairdryer longer; mowing the lawn will take all of Sunday afternoon; smart phones might not respond so quickly; and you really could wait forever for the kettle to boil!

David Carney

UKIP Worcester