It has been shocking to read that the decision by Cumbria County Council to grant planning permission for a new coal mine was not 'called in' by the Secretary of State, Robert Jenrick.

However, following fierce opposition from many sources, the county council is now to reconsider the matter.

This does'n't mean it's all over. The Council could confirm its earlier decision, and Robert Jenrick could still decide not to intervene.

Nobody can blame people in West Cumbria for wanting 500 new jobs; but other ways of creating these are possible which would be evident to any government with sufficient vision and determination.

In Mel Stride we have an M.P. who prides himself on his environmental credentials. You may think it appropriate to drop him a line and see how strong these are.

John Craythorne