REGARDING the use of taxpayers’ money for union functions and office facilities (HAS, May 31).

The Labour Party received £2,882,765 in the first quarter of 2011, of which £2,507,372, or over 85 per cent, was provided by the unions.

If they can afford to fund the Labour Party then they ought to have enough money to pay for office space.

Perhaps the unions can afford to fund the Labour Party precisely because the taxpayer is unaware that they – and not the unions – are funding other union duties?

Dr Alan Booth, chairman, Bishop Auckland Conservative Association.