I had to laugh when I saw the depths your new gossip column, Between the Lines, has fallen to.

Whoever your so-called mole was on the Terrace of the House of Commons at the reception to celebrate 50 years of Conservative rule in Chipping Barnet, I would suggest they need to invest in a new pair of glasses.

Your suggestion that most of those at the party would have been around when the seat was won from Labour 50 years ago is simple bunkum. In fact, most of the guests were younger people who work in London and came onto the reception after work.

The article seems to be very ageist in some of its reporting. According to Age Concern, some 26.1 per cent of residents in Chipping Barnet are over 65. If any political party is to mirror its population, then you should expect senior citizens to be represented.

N Smith, c/o Chipping Barnet

Conservative Association

High Street, Barnet