Short & sweet

On company grants

I am personally sick of Shane Jones spreading taxpayers’ money like a very sick parody of Santa Claus. Labour bent over too far in the coalition negotiations and the result is not pretty. Neville Cameron, Coromandel.

On Cup

Another $22 million donation by the Government for the America’s Cup. Don’t be fooled into thinking Santa is male, female, transgender or Maori. Santa is our coalition Government whose largesse with your money knows no bounds. Graham Fleetwood, Mellons Bay.

On fuel

While it is good that the price of petrol is finally being scrutinised, it has actually been dropping (feebly) lately. Not so the price of diesel. Even though crude oil prices have plunged 20 per cent or more in the past few months, diesel’s price has not even flickered. Why not?

Graham Steenson, Whakata ne.

On rebuke

Greg O’Connor needs to make his mind up, either he’s an MP or a PM (policeman). No Cabinet post for him after his second rebuke from the actual PM. Tony Kaye, Hamilton.

On climate

Your correspondent Nick Nicholas (sea levels) should consider seasonal work in Hawke’s Bay or Central Otago. The fruit harvest is in full swing and demand for experienced cherrypickers is high. Howard Edwards, Coatesville.

On Santa

The PC crowd should call for a ban on showing Santa coming down the chimney because it marginalises kids who live in a house with no chimney. Peter Culpan, Te Atatu Peninsula.