18 OCTOBER 1968, Page 28

Sir: One begins to wonder exactly what public purpose political

party conferences, of whatever complexion, are intended to serve.

If conflicting, views are presented, the party concerned is condemned as divided, and there- fore emasculated: where there is general agree- ment, the proceedings are dismissed as colourless and lacking in that vitality essential to good government.

Wouldn't it be better all round, save news- papers and broadcasting companies a lot of money and the public hours of boredom, to treat these annual junketings for what they are —pleasant social get-togethers for people who like that kind of thing, and no more news- worthy than any other works outings?

Sylvia Hayman Little Cacketts, Brasted Chart, near Westerham, Kent