WE ARE a nation divided. Only 37 per cent of people eligible to vote last June used their vote to voice their disapproval of the EU as it is today.

The UK government, pandering to the demands of a segment of the 37 per cent, is dismissing many facts and failing to represent the interests of those who wish to remain within the EU – and even Theresa May has called us ‘losers’.

This week, BBC research has confirmed that the ‘losers’ in society tend to be the university educated amongst us. The people who are most likely to have the best ideas for a more equitable and fair society – and generate the nation’s wealth.

The government has turned against the best minds in society. It has made undeliverable promises to those it’s ignored for too long – those trapped in deprived areas and/or denied many opportunities because of failed UK government policies.

The referendum was ‘won’ on the basis of misunderstandings, misinformation, lies and fake promises – it was revealed on BBC Question Time last week that some voted for Brexit based on the shape of bananas. Others voted for Brexit based on the failings of UK government departments – such as DEFRA.

We employ MPs to make well-informed decisions on our behalf. The ‘will of a segment of the people’ from that 37 per cent should not drag us all in one direction.

We need leaders who represent everyone, not politicians justifying poor decisions based on a flawed referendum and ‘alternative facts’. The UK government needs to tackle inequality in the UK.

We need to work within the EU to protect and enhance the environment, healthcare, food safety, livelihoods, fish stocks, as well as worker conditions, and consumer protections. The imperfections of the EU reflect the calibre of people we elect to represent us – both as MEPs and MPs.

Whilst there has been much political discussion in recent weeks, our MP, Alun Cairns, has been busy writing about his favourite curry, his marathon running exploits, and offering fun day-trips to Westminster.

Ian Perry

St Nicholas

Vale of Glamorgan