Letter to the editor: Regarding your thoughts of the week (September 17).

You suggest that older people should have the vote withdrawn.

In the words of John McEnroe, you cannot be serious.

No, there should not be a cut-off point for older voters.

It is the older generation that has made this country what it is, through their sacrifices during World War II, and through their enforced contributions to the economy, with many – even into old age – doing volunteer work, caring for elderly parents and looking after grandchildren.

Why should they be dismissed as unworthy of making known their views on the running of the country?

Now 80, I went out to work at 16, and for 44 years paid income tax and National Insurance.

Now retired, I still pay income tax not only on my pension, but also on the derisory interest gained on my small savings.

I pay council tax and VAT on utility bills, thus continuing to make a contribution to the economy of central and local Government.

Some 18-year-olds are still at school, making no financial contributions at all to the economy.

Why should they have the vote?

I consider that the vote should only be given to those who are, or have been, out at work, paying their way in the economy.

As a citizen of this country, although elderly, affected by the decisions made by the Government, I have just as much right as anyone else to have a voice in the running of the country.

MARY HOLLAND, Sidcup