SO, Buckingham Palace has cancelled its staff Christmas party due to concerns over costs (Echo, Oct 15) yet Downing Street allowed a party to celebrate Lady Thatcher’s 85th birthday go ahead even though the guest of honour was unable to attend (Echo, also Oct 15).

But, fear not, another celebration will be funded (by the taxpayer?) when she recovers following a bout of flu. Where does this Government get its fiscal priorities from?

Lara France, Darlington.