I FIND it extraordinary that the Government’s response to strike action on July 10 by the NUT and five other public sector unions has been to completely ignore the issues and instead seek to reduce people’s right to strike.

Suggesting a three month life span for a ballot to take strike action is a ridiculous suggestion given the lack of interest they have shown over the past three years to resolve disputes.

In light of the local elections in May which had a 36 per cent turnout the Government must surely see the hypocrisy in suggesting a 50 per cent turn out for strike action ballots.

This is a direct attack on the civil liberties of hard-working people, and a determination not only to silence those who are taking action but to ensure that legitimate concerns are not drawn to the public’s attention.

BETH PURNELL Fearnhead