Letter: Cunningham: a philistine who forgets the grassroots The shadow minister of fun whose strength is elsewhere

Jack Cunningham may appear to be ignorant of the "high" arts because he is too busy representing his constituents in Copeland, Cumbria. You forgot to mention heritage in your assessment of his suitability: in Whitehaven, Dr Cunningham has attracted investment for the Beacon Heritage Centre, and has invited business people to "sell Whitehaven", given its heavy links with the industrial past.

You also neglected sport. Dr Cunningham is quite aware of the need for safer stadiums and better facilities. Finally, there is "popular culture", and this can play a part in regenerating our run-down cities.

John James Knox

University of Wales

Aberystwyth, Dyfed