MADAM, There are many answers to this. But it can be broadly summarised by what a member of the local Labour Party said to me a few years ago. That person argued that it is not the Labour Party's job to find out what people think, but instead to change how they think. This 'I know better than you' attitude can be observed locally and nationally in the recent campaign regarding three key areas. Firstly, the Labour Party has presumed that it can take credit for the NHS and use fear to make people believe that Conservatives will privatise the NHS. That argument is not taken seriously, especially in Monmouth. The people of this town have seen resources soaked up by Cardiff for many years. Ambulance and cancer care has been championed by the Conservatives, not by Labour. Secondly, the rise of UKIP and evidence from polls shows that a significant number of people want a referendum on EU membership. The last time we had a voice on Europe was three generations ago. Ed Miliband effectively said to Britain, I know better than you and that is why you will not have a referendum. It is not surprising that people did not warm to that argument. But the really big issue is the third, and as usual, the economy. The Conservatives have not only argued that it is unfair that future generations are driven into debt by overspending, but have also managed to reduce the deficit whilst decreasing taxes for many people. Many individuals feel that difference, and have voted accordingly. Nonetheless, the failure of Labour should worry us all. My father always pointed out that you need a strong opposition to hold those in power to account. He was absolutely right. But until a section of militants who undermine democracy decide to stand aside locally and nationally, that will not happen. Until then, moderate young people who value democracy and credible policies will continue to leave Labour and support the Conservatives. Mat Davies (Monmouth)