AS a member of Thirsk and Malton Conservative Association, I was disappointed to read that the Conservative MP for Scarborough, Robert Goodwill, has allowed his name to be associated with the bitter problems that exist in the Thirsk and Malton constituency.

His comments about Anne McIntosh MP in the local press recently were unnecessary and may open old wounds.

As a member of the local association, does Anne McIntosh not have an interest and entitlement to attend the final selection meeting for the prospective candidate? Why make this into an issue?

By making these comments he may find his reputation is damaged. A true gentleman would not have publicly criticised a neighbouring MP who is still working for and on behalf of her constituents, despite the situation she now finds herself in.

There is an old saying “people in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones”. Politics is a fickle occupation, who knows what Mr Goodwill’s position will be after the 2015 General Election?

Name and address supplied