Politicians of all flavour take note

noodles you misunderstood my post I was including ALL the people of the UK and not simply focusing on one area.

Inequality affects all areas of the UK not just a particular area

If it were more attractive to remain in areas other than London, there would not be the influx or people from the provinces who hope that the streets will be paved in gold.

If there were decentralisation, there would be more work for those outside London so that they can be successful in their own area. with less pressure on the infrastructure in London and the South-East, things could be better for those living there, too.

Airing your views to local government does not help them to redistribute what they do not have, or to attract business and backing away from the magnet of the South-East.

noodles I think we probably are all aware of the deprivation of parts of London but also aware of the great wealth. I think the extremes of London are quite well known.

I do agree that government and the media are Londoncentric and perhaps that is because that is where so many of them are based. If you know nothing about, say, the north east, how difficult must it be to understand the issues?

One example I often quote is the amount the Arts Council spends per capita on London compared to the rest of the country. It makes no sense to me. Why would London theatres need more help than regional ones?

I often read complaints about politicians focusing on London and the South East, but I'm not sure what it means. You talk as though you are an oppressed minority with no right to vote - perhaps you need to do a better job in chosing your politicians. And what about local government? Presumably you elect your local councillors and have access to them to air your views?

London has more and greater areas of deprivation than you think.

VampireQueen: is that a threat?

Yes I agree whitewave politicians should be looking at the UK as a whole instead of always focusing on London and the South East !

Yes, but I was also thinking of after devo max is in place and the West Lothian questian is sorted (if ever!). I would argue that the vote showed that those who rarely vote as a result of feeling disenfranchisment are largely the poorer members of our society. I think that politicians must recognize this and speak to these people addressing their problems and needs.

It may be that the inequality of the UK needs attention and a greater resolve to sort it.

Cameron better come through with his bribes or all hell will break lose.