SIR,

Many people of my age can remember the outrageous Post War Groundnut Scheme in Tanganyika, which started in 1947 pouring millions of pounds into a scheme that was ill-conceived and recklessly carried out, only to be abandoned after four years due to the vast sums of money already wasted, and political imcompetence.

Our politicians never seem to learn, they appear to have no regard for the limitless sums of money being spent on the hideous inefficient wind turbines.

It is evident that better use could be made of more efficient hydro-electrics and anaerobic digesters. These projects could be widely used as a source of renewable energy, without serious detriment to the community or countryside.

The proposed HS2 – High Speed Rail project is likely to end up another white elephant. What guarantee do we have that it will be built within its budget? The whole construction will decimate large parts of the countryside, and what will we do with the time we are supposed to be saving?

It is a matter of record that the cost of aircraft carriers currently being built is ending up at double the original estimate.

This should be a warning when high-cost projects are being considered.

It is of great concern that energy prices continue to rise at alarming rates. I have repeatedly inquired as to why research is not carried out into the burning of our enormous stocks of coal underground so we can harness the energy.

I was recently advised it is against the vested interests of our present energy providers.

W Barnard

(Usk)