SIR – The Lib Dems have shot themselves in the foot with their allegiance to the Tories. Where we had George Bush pulling the strings on Tony Blair, we now have David Cameron pulling the string on Nick Clegg.

After a lifetime voting Labour, I changed to Lib Dem. I was so impressed by Clegg’s showing in the TV debates. At last the Lib Dems were coming in from the cold, were on their way once again to being a formidable force, and Clegg a PM in the making.

Alas, the election produced a hung parliament.

The thoughts of Chairman Clegg? I can get into Government if I play my cards right, I’ll support Cameron, and what he said in the debates was forgotten.

In effect, he misled his voters. Clegg has turned out to be just another politician, a few extra shackles, a ministerial car and a bit of power, if the puppeteer allows it.

With the actions of Clegg & Co, the Lib Dems will be out of it for years to come. I voted Lib Dem because there is no way I could vote Conservative, and what did I get? Tory.

For a bit of power, Mr Clegg, you have lost your principles.

Harry Watson, Cross Lane, Great Horton