With regard to the European constitution debate, some people seem worried that we may become part of a United States of Europe.

However I would argue that we should be much more fearful of the growing influence in Britain of the "cowboy" style economics promoted by George Bush's USA.

While the EU does have its faults it provides an important counter-balance to the USA. Many EU regulations help to raise environmental and ethical standards of production above those of the US.

ANDREW STIMSON

Swindon