LEADERS have to have many skills and qualities. Some have strengths, where they are considered to be courageous, with a spirit like Sir Winston Churchill, who in wartime had ideal qualities, but who failed to inspire an electorate in the 1945 General Election.

Despite his critics over Afghanistan and Iraq, Tony Blair managed three successful General Elections.

Charisma is also thought to be important, but it is substance rather than style that impresses the public.

Honesty, even in the face of having to deliver bad news, is preferred to deceit.

Though not a supporter myself, Margaret Thatcher introduced policies and reforms that provoked anger and division, but I guess many would say she was honest in delivering what she believed was right.

People don't like their leaders to dither. They like clarity and resilience. The notion of open government has to be matched with belief that what is said will lead to effective action.

As for an all-round leader who stands out as the best the country has ever had, I would struggle to find one particular individual.

However, I do believe that had he lived, Labour's late John Smith would have been a possible choice.

Bernie Walsh, Coxhoe, Durham.