10 OCTOBER 1947, Page 16

WEST ISLINGTON AND THE FUTURE

SIR,—According to Janus the West Islington by-election can afford but "little satisfaction to the Liberals." Figures, of course, can sometimes be utilised to prove almost anything. It is none the less significant that, following a quiescence of eighteen years, the Liberal poll in that division should attain to a ratio virtually identical to that of 1929. If, therefore, the implications of this result be generally applicable—and even solitary constituencies can sometimes indicate the general trend—the Liberal strength is back to that of 1929. With yet another two years to go, the party may thus look forward to an increment of strength and popular support which may well confound its opponents. No less significant is the evidence afforded ilia, in the absence of a Liberal candidate, the Liberal vote tends to go to the Socialist. The realisation may well have a salutary effect on those who so often aspire to a flirtation between Liberalism and Toryism. No surer way could be adopted for perpetuating a Socialist Government.—Yours, &c., LL. EMYR ROBERTS.

6 Cobden Terrace, Rhyl.