ED MILIBAND speaks enthusiastically about the United Kingdom, but pointedly, as with politicians in general, makes no mention of one the one thing which produces what he calls “narrow Englishness” – the gross inequality suffered by the English.

He does not need reminding of the huge amounts of English taxpayers’ money that is shovelled into the three other countries of the United Kingdom, particularly to Scotland,where, among other advantages of living in that fortunate country, care is free for the elderly, university education is free, as are NHS prescriptions and hospital parking.

If he wishes to recruit the English to his side, he must look to this situation without delay.

It follows that if a devolved Scotland can afford to provide such expensive services free, then Scotland is receiving far more than its share of monies raised by taxation, than is due.

Wales and Northern Ireland, but to a lesser degree than Scotland, also enjoy benefits over England from being in the UK, their residents receiving provision of services either for free or at a significantly lower charge than do the English.

It is infuriating that my taxes end up subsidising the three other members of the United Kingdom.

At the same time, I pay the full costs of everything while living in one of the most disadvantaged parts of the country.

How I wish that politicians had the moral courage and honesty to admit to these facts, instead of ignoring them.

I have contacted MPs, but their answers lack any credibility, usually ignoring the points raised. This is quite disgraceful.

Action is called for, abandonment of the iniquitous Barnet formula by which Government money is allotted throughout the UK would be a sensible starting point.

Bobby Meynell, Stockton.