Wales must get on – or many will get out

WHAT a superb synopsis of the content of a programme to be broadcast during March of an interview given by the former Times editor Sir Simon Jenkins to BBC’s History magazine, carried in the

Western Mail (“Wales needs to get over England, says Sir Simon”, February 26).

I have re-read it several times and how it reflects the experiences of my nearest and dearest over the last century, and continues to do so as “the getting out” goes on with the continuing decline of Wales.

I can understand why the comments of Sir Simon have not been universally well-received, as it would certainly get under the skin of the poor-quality elected politicians we have in power and other vested interests who want benefits only for their cronies and themselves.

On the opposite page was mentioned the thorny issue of income tax in Wales. I am far from being rich but if there is any rise whatsoever I shall consider leaving this wonderful country and join the “got out” contingent.

I am in regular contact with cousins of family that left in the 1930s to earn a good living in the

Home Counties.

Born of Welsh parents and now in their 70s and 80s, they always, having lived in England, speak with strange accents and greet me “hello boyo” even though I don’t consider myself having a strong Valleys accent.

However, if we were properly managed we could be a great country and people would swarm here.

MJ Crouch Tonteg, Pontypridd