Letter: Why do we seem to learn nothing from history?

Since then, there has been no nation on Earth who threatened to take away our liberty.

I sincerely do not believe that neither Russia or China have shown any inclination to attack us. Some of the top generals are now suggesting we bring back conscription for our young people.

I've got a much better suggestion which would benefit this country in far greater ways than sending our youngsters abroad to face death and maiming while interfering in those countries' affairs.

We hear frequently that there is a shortage of skilled labour in this country in many trades. Instead of bringing back conscription, we could ensure any young person leaving school without academic qualifications be given the option of an apprenticeship.

This would not only reduce the numbers of youths on benefits it may enable them to gain a little dignity and prevent them turning to drugs to get through life.

They could then go on to achieve a qualification which would last throughout their lives, providing this country with a highly skilled workforce.

I can hear the politicians screaming in protest that we do not have the finances to do this.

How come we can then send billions of pounds to places all over the world? Another way those billions could be used to benefit this country is a major road resurfacing programme, rather than bunging the potholes up with stuff that lasts less than a month.

D Fox

Newbold