Oh DEAR, it seems B Gibbs has been duped by the spin coming from Tory Central Office (Oxford Mail, July 7).

Contrary to what the coalition Government would have us believe, our deficit is among the lowest in the G7. France, Germany, Canada and the US have a higher debt to GDP ratio than us. However, the Government’s foolhardy and reckless attempt to eliminate the deficit in one Parliament isn’t working and is seriously jeopardising the fragile recovery.

The growing list of shops and businesses forced to close is testament.

Tens of thousands of workers now unable to earn, and to pay tax and National Insurance, are now dependent on hand-outs and benefits from the Treasury.

The growing cost of living crisis and rising energy and fuel costs are escalating out of control.

It’s time for Mr Osborne to think again and look at Plan B.

ANDREW COLES, Farmington Drive, Witney