I NOTE that Ed Miliband is not only unable to keep his front bench under control, but he is unable to keep an effective working appointments diary.

That is, if his reason for not attending the Durham Miners’ Gala is to be believed.

For the last 20 years Labour leaders have failed to attend what is supposed to be a Labour Party celebration.

We all knew Tony Blair felt uncomfortable rubbing shoulders with true socialists.

Ed Miliband owes a debt of gratitude to trades unionists for his election victory.

Now, he doesn’t wish to stand on the same platform as Bob Crow, a militant union leader, as this may sully the image he wishes to promote.

Once again, Labour leaders prove beyond doubt they take their support up North for granted.

Colin Mortimer, Durham.