Time for the Tories to rediscover conservatism

SIR – The Government is rightly focusing on Brexit, but the key to future prosperity is a pro-capitalist, pro-enterprise Conservative Party.

Theresa May has allowed the Tories’ drift to the Left – which began under David Cameron – to continue. It seems the Government is no longer interested in shrinking the state.

Every announcement now is about a new tax or spending commitment. There has been a surrender over public-sector pay. Student fees may be cut, which means those who do not go to university will have to pay more for those who do. And Mrs May herself has fuelled anti-business sentiment by attacking the pay of business leaders.

The Tories dominated the 20th century with popular policies that reduced the dead hand of the state and liberated individuals, families and communities. A new leader is needed to champion such policies again. David Saunders

Sidmouth, Devon

SIR – Contrary to what Simon Heffer says (Comment, September 10), if more Tories were like Jacob Rees-Mogg, the party would be unelectable.

Mr Rees-Mogg’s remarks on abortion were sincere, which is all the more saddening. They showed little compassion for his fellow humans. His views are of a bygone age. Alex Telford

St-Jean-le-Thomas, Manche, France