I write as a retired tradesman (electrician) and speak for all trades and skilled men who spend many years learning and updating their knowledge to do their job competently.

So could someone explain to me how, as reported, ex-MP Jackie Ballard is paid £400 a day plus expenses for sitting on the board of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority? What are her qualifications? In the world I live in, £400 is a weekly wage for most people if they are lucky.

ALAN COGLEY, Deerstone Avenue, Burnley.