I'M afraid that I don't share D Margrett's enthusiasm (You Say, August 12) for Tony Blair's inspirational leadership.

I wish that I did. Many of us no doubt raised a cheer after the 1997 election, expecting a shift back to social democracy. The long years of Thatcherite and post-Thatcherite economic, political and social mis-management would surely be over.

In opposition, Blair and his acolytes had made many encouraging speeches. After two landslide election results, where are we now?

Much of the Thatcherite anti-trade union legislation is still in place. It is said that we will have the most restrictive labour laws in Europe. The railway system is still in private hands, despite there being a clear majority of the people in favour of state ownership.

Hopefully, the railway infrastructure will now be under state control, but I wouldn't bank on it. When is Blair and his boys going to realise that one can't have complete control of anything with having ownership, or at least a majority ownership. The lessons of Railtrack will be reflected in other areas.

The proportion of the GNP spent on public projects is still less that the European average and much less than that of Germany. Indeed, during Blair's first term it was a lower percentage than that spent under the Major administration.

The trade unions, after five years of sitting on their hands, are now rapidly loosing patience with Blair. He should take notice. The Party and the unions are traditionally partners in British social democracy.

The above is but a small sample of the grievance many activists have - but will Blair take any notice?

A J C EVANS,

Callow End,

Worcester.