ALAN JOHNSON’S shock resignation as Shadow Chancellor met with immediate speculation as to the reasons for his decision.

Surely, the speculation is just knockabout politics? Well, maybe.

The pressures of private life and the impact on political office should be entirely separate entities. But invariably politicians’ private lives are embroiled in exposure and intrusion by some sections of the media.

For the moment, Mr Johnson has taken the bold decision to step back from the Opposition front bench.

He has private family issues to deal with and should be afforded privacy. I do hope the tabloids take heed.

If, or when, the time allows I do hope to see the talented Mr Johnson return.

Bernie Walsh, Coxhoe