How can austerity suddenly be over?

■ As we approach next month’s general election, neither of the two main parties have properly explained how we as a nation can possibly afford their manifesto promises.

Ever since the crash 12 years or so ago, successive chancellors have imposed austerity measures because our economy was not growing and therefore tax returns were not sufficient to pay for all the social services etc we previously enjoyed.

We were told these measures were required or our national debt would rise exponentially. What has changed? Absolutely nothing. So where have they found the money tree?

I ceased to believe politicians and their promises long ago, and this election campaign has done nothing to change my mind. I have no idea how to vote as they are all a shower. Allen B, Derby

■ ‘Does the truth matter?’ Boris Johnson was asked in Tuesday’s TV

debate. ‘I believe it does,’ he replied. As he spoke, the Conservatives were tweeting anti-Labour posts under the brand ‘factcheckUK’. Senior colleagues of the prime minister went on to defend this. British politics has hit a new low. Rev Andrew McLuskey, via email

■ There’s not enough laughter in the world these days, which is why I’d like to thank Graeme for his comment about Jeremy Corbyn being ‘the only person qualified for the job [of being

PM]’ (MetroTalk, Wed). I’m still struggling to contain the chuckles. John, Huntingdon

■ People are missing the point when complaining that Jeremy Corbyn will not confirm whether he would support his Brexit deal or remain. He doesn’t need to. He would put the choice to the people in a referendum. I respect him for taking this position and trusting the British electorate. Jon, Leighton Buzzard