Mr Ron Isaacs, self-appointed apologist for Tony Blair, (Times Letters, June 29) clearly knows little about the Women's Institute.

In spite of his assertion, the WI does not claim to be non-political.

In recent years some individual members have espoused causes including the legalisation of cannabis and brothels, as well as supporting groups fighting domestic violence.

What the WI does claim is that it is non-party political, a concept that Ron 'after a lifetime in politics' Isaacs cannot comprehend.

Prominent public figures are capable of speaking in public without alienating audiences with their own narrow views or prejudices. There is a world of difference between a talk involving politics and a party political speech.

Ron fails utterly to recognise that Tony Blair, having wangled himself an invitation to address the WI, was wrong to use the opportunity to give a party political broadcast.

Of course WI members resented being used as a vehicle for New Labour's propaganda.

His comeuppance was well-deserved and a salutary reminder to politicians that people can get fed up with being taken for granted.

Stuart Rising

Durham Road, East Finchley