Jacob Rees-mogg makes Conservatism sound effortlessly superior
SIR – I am afraid that Jacob Rees-mogg protests in vain that he does not wish to be prime minister.
He sets out with sparkling clarity (Comment, August 14) the reasons why Conservatism is better than socialism at achieving what we all want, which is a prosperous and fair society. Elizabeth Roberts
Scotby, Cumbria
SIR – I was annoyed to learn that Theresa May “giggled” at the thought of Jacob Rees-mogg becoming a senior minister. Mr Rees-mogg is immensely popular, has more than his share of common sense (distinctly lacking in government these days) and handles himself well in television interviews.
While he has declared no interest in becoming party leader, should he ever do so, I for one would forsake Ukip and vote Conservative. Pat Cooper
Stoke Bruerne, Northamptonshire
SIR – Jacob Rees-mogg makes sensible points about the Conservative ideal, government and taxation. I express Conservatism using my five fingers.
The first finger wants a decent welfare state and government. The second finger understands that the first finger’s “wants” require taxation. The third finger understands that taxation requires jobs, in the private sector, not the public sector where the tax merely does a merry-go-round. The fourth finger appreciates that jobs require businesses. And the fifth finger realises that businesses require profit to provide incentive and investment.
If the Government encourages profit, the “wants” follow. This is Conservatism. The other way round does not work and is called socialism. Richard Pickance
Lymington, Hampshire
SIR – Hooray for Mr Rees-mogg! Our politicians certainly need to be reminded of Conservative values. The same principles need to be applied to Brexit.
We are not supplicants for crumbs from Jean-claude Juncker’s table, but a proud and able nation that wants to take control of our lives again. Geraldine Wills
Chaffcombe, Somerset
SIR – Every time I have any exposure to Jacob Rees-mogg, my opinion of him increases. His piece yesterday was one of the most cogent, sensible and well-crafted that it has been my pleasure to read.
Perhaps not Rees-mogg for prime minister, but the office of Speaker could benefit from being occupied by someone with such knowledge, common sense, humour and dignity. He would be Speaker Peel (1884-95) all over again, and about time. David Pearson
Haworth, West Yorkshire
SIR – The poor man doesn’t want the poisoned chalice of leadership. He is, however, a magnificent enabler.
Find him a job that suits his talents, I say. And quickly. Neale Edwards
Chard, Somerset