I was intrigued by your feature which detailed the voting habits of Polish residents in Regency ward with reference to the forthcoming council by-election on December 13 (The Argus, November 20).

As the individual who has, I believe, knocked on more doors in Regency ward during the past year than any other politician, I have met a great number of the area's Polish residents. Due to a shared Eastern European connection, more Poles than English actually pronounce my surname correctly!

My own grandfather was a Hungarian miner who came to England after the Second World War in a similar fashion to many of the older members of the Polish community.

It is on this authority that I base my following argument.

While it should be pointed out that assigning a natural political affiliation to any group within society is risky, even arrogant, it is also an interesting exercise if carried out lightheartedly.

My Green rival suggests that the Poles, like the Greens, appreciate traditional skills, nature and the countryside. I appreciate these things too but I do not intend on changing sides in the near future.

In good spirit and with no disrespect intended, I would suggest that the Polish community should instead naturally follow the Conservative Party.

The Polish, in a short space of time in England, have carved out a reputation for themselves as hard workers. They are patriotic and are keen to create a good impression of their home country to the English.

In true entrepeneurial style they have travelled to find work, often under harsh conditions, to make a better life for themselves and their loved ones. Many, for understandable historical reasons, share a deep suspicion of the political Left.

These are all actions that I admire and relate to. These are all actions that one would expect from a true Conservative.

  • Robert Nemeth, Conservative candidate in the Regency ward by-election, Sussex Heights St Margaret's Place, Brighton